When renting a property, it’s essential for both tenants and landlords to understand their respective responsibilities concerning home maintenance.

Knowing who handles what not only supports a good relationship between landlords and tenants but also ensures the property remains in good condition.

So, what home maintenance items are generally the tenant’s responsibility, and which are the landlord’s? 

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants are usually responsible for the everyday upkeep of the property and minor tasks to ensure the home remains livable, tidy, and safe. Here are some common duties expected from tenants:

• General cleaning and care. Renters should regularly clean the home to keep it sanitary and free of pests and odors. This includes vacuuming, dusting, mopping floors, and cleaning windows.
• Lawn and outdoor area maintenance. In many lease agreements, tenants are responsible for basic outdoor tasks such as mowing the lawn, watering plants, and raking leaves. It’s important to clarify this in the rental agreement, as responsibilities can vary.
• Replacing consumables. Tenants typically handle replacing consumables that are part of ordinary wear and tear, such as light bulbs, air filters, and smoke detector batteries.
• Reporting issues. Renters are responsible for promptly reporting any repair issues to the landlord to prevent minor problems from turning into major ones. This includes leaks, pest infestations, or electrical issues.
• Minor repairs. In some lease agreements, tenants might be responsible for minor repairs, such as unclogging minor drain blockages or patching small holes in walls. Always refer to the lease for specifics.

Landlord Responsibilities

Landlords are responsible for ensuring the property meets safety and habitability standards. Their duties generally involve more significant repairs and structural maintenance, such as:

• Major repairs and maintenance. Landlords are responsible for addressing substantial repairs related to the property’s structural integrity and essential systems. This includes roof repairs, plumbing, electrical work, and heating or cooling system maintenance.

• Ensuring safety and health standards. Landlords must ensure the property adheres to safety codes and health standards, such as installing and maintaining smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, ensuring secure locks on doors and windows, and addressing any mold or pest issues.

• Regular inspections. Conducting regular inspections helps landlords identify potential problems early. Landlords should coordinate these inspections with the tenant, providing proper notice as stipulated in the lease agreement.

• Appliance repairs and replacement. Landlords are generally responsible for handling appliance repairs and replacement, such as if the fridge, dishwasher, or washing machine breaks.

• Structural maintenance. The landlord must ensure the property’s structural elements, like the foundation, walls, and roof, remain in good condition. This responsibility extends to common areas in multi-unit buildings.

Make Responsibilities Clear With FAS Management

Clearly defining responsibilities in the lease allows landlords to protect their investment properties and create the foundation for a positive landlord-tenant relationship. If you’re a landlord who needs assistance in managing tenant relationships or property maintenance, contact FAS Management today at (202) 377-5080 for expert guidance and services tailored to your needs in DC!