Published: June 01, 2023

When to Contact Your Landlord for Home Repairs

As a tenant, it’s important to understand when it’s appropriate to involve your landlord in home repairs. While minor issues can be handled by yourself, there are situations that require immediate attention and professional assistance. In this blog post, we will discuss when to contact your landlord for repairs and provide tips on effective communication.

Emergencies and Safety Hazards

In the event of emergencies or safety hazards like gas leaks, electrical failures, burst pipes, sewage backups, or structural damage, it is vital to swiftly reach out to your landlord or their emergency line without delay. Taking immediate action is essential to safeguard your well-being and ensure a prompt response to mitigate any risks. 

Your landlord should have established protocols in place to address these situations promptly and arrange for professional repairs or necessary interventions. Prioritizing your safety and promptly notifying your landlord is crucial in such circumstances.

Major System Failures

When you encounter major system failures in your rental property, such as problems with the HVAC system, plumbing issues like a non-functioning toilet or shower, or faulty appliances provided by the landlord, it is the landlord’s responsibility to address these matters. However, before contacting your landlord, it is advisable to perform basic troubleshooting steps to rule out any minor issues or quick fixes. If the problem persists despite your efforts, it is essential to document the issue by noting down specific details and, if possible, capturing photographs or videos that demonstrate the problem.

Once you have gathered the necessary information, promptly reach out to your landlord to report the problem and request repairs. By providing clear documentation and a detailed description of the issue, you can effectively communicate the severity and urgency of the situation, increasing the chances of a timely response and resolution from your landlord. 

Structural and Safety Concerns 

While it’s important to prioritize emergencies and safety hazards, it’s equally crucial to address repairs that may not pose an immediate risk but can significantly impact your comfort and quality of life. Issues such as leaking faucets, non-functional locks or broken windows compromising security, damaged roof shingles leading to leaks, pest infestations, or the presence of mold or mildew can create inconvenience and potential health concerns. 

To ensure timely resolution, it’s essential to notify your landlord promptly when encountering these problems. Provide them with detailed information, including the specific areas or fixtures affected, the extent of the issue, and any supporting evidence you can provide, such as photographs or videos. Promptly addressing these repairs not only helps to maintain your comfort and well-being but also prevents minor issues from escalating into more significant problems over time.

Repairs Outlined in the Lease Agreement 

When it comes to home repairs, it’s important to refer to your lease agreement to understand the specific responsibilities outlined by your landlord. Lease agreements often include clauses that explicitly state the landlord’s obligations for certain repairs, such as the maintenance of appliances, fixtures, or amenities provided with the rental property. 

If you encounter issues related to these specific aspects mentioned in the agreement, it’s crucial to inform your landlord and reference the lease agreement to reinforce your request. By doing so, you provide clear evidence of the agreed-upon terms and ensure that your landlord is aware of their obligations.

Understanding when to involve your landlord in home repairs ensures a safe and comfortable living environment. While minor issues and routine maintenance can be handled independently, emergencies, major system failures, structural concerns, and repairs specified in the lease require your landlord’s attention. 

Maintain open communication, document issues, and clearly communicate the impact on your daily life to facilitate timely responses from your landlord. By doing so, you can resolve repair issues efficiently and maintain a positive tenant-landlord relationship. For more information, visit UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Durham or call us at (984) 202-8072.