When living in a rental, there are times when damages arise. They might be the outcome of your behavior or somebody you know. Nevertheless, if you damage something in your rental, you’re liable for the essential repairs.
It’s also important to inform your landlord that you’ll take the necessary measures to replace or repair what you’ve damaged. If you don’t conduct the repairs or carry them out to a poor standard, you could potentially face an eviction and the landlord could deduct the cost of repairs from your security deposit. Here’s a list of repairs a tenant is responsible for.
Broken Windows or Locks
While the law requires the landlord to maintain property security by substituting broken windows or locks, if you’re responsible for breaking them, you’ll pay. Keep in mind that the landlord isn’t responsible for you forgetting or losing your keys.
Therefore, if you decide to break the window or lock because you’ve lost your keys, be prepared to pay the necessary charges. The next time you find yourself locked out; consider calling building maintenance or a locksmith. Alternatively, you could leave your spare key with a trusted neighbor or friend.
Broken Appliances
Appliances such as microwaves, stoves, and dryers won’t be durable under abuse. Appropriate appliance use is necessary for any living circumstance and if any damage is obviously the outcome of negligence on your part as a renter, you might need to foot the bill.
For instance, if you’re in the habit of closing the dishwasher with your foot, it will break sooner or later. In this case, the landlord won’t be keen on replacing or repairing the appliances you misuse.
Remember, misuse also comprises things like not using the right kind of detergent in a front-loading washer and placing peach pits or chicken bones into your garbage disposal.
Septic Maintenance
Inappropriate use of a septic maintenance could seriously shorten its lifespan. This maintenance issue is so significant that landlords incorporate a lease clause or offer a handout that outlines the best practices. They comprise treating greases, oils, and non-degradable substances like trash instead of plumbing waste.
Tank pumping, septic treatments, and pump maintenance are your landlord’s responsibility. However, if the system fails, you could be held responsible if it’s the result of negligence.
Bulbs
You’re responsible for substituting bulbs in the rental property and if left, a charge might apply to substitute them. If you find that some bulbs are in high and hard to reach locations, it’s important to inform the landlord to assist you if you’re incapable of replacing them.
Nevertheless, you’d need to offer the bulbs for the landlord to fix it. If you’re uncertain of how to change a certain kind of fitting, it’s important to obtain assistance.
Drains
It’s important you examine your external drains (typically outside the kitchen window) for any obstructions caused by fallen leaves or surplus food waste. Keep in mind that charges might apply if the landlord needs to clear it after the checkout inspection.
If your drain is blocked, various products exist on the market to help clear it although you might need to eliminate any noticeable objects by hand.
Final Thoughts
Rental damage is frequently a situation in which a landlord can make you responsible for repair costs or withhold your security deposit when you leave the unit. While the landlord is responsible for certain repairs, renters can also be responsible for these damages.
For more information on rental property damage, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a message.