How To Handle Maintenance Issues in Your Rental
4 min read.
Renting a home comes with its perks – no property taxes, no major repair costs, and a landlord to handle maintenance. But what happens when something breaks? Knowing how to handle maintenance issues properly can save you time and stress, whether it’s a leaky faucet, a broken heater, or a pest problem. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure repairs get done efficiently.
Know Your Lease Agreement
Before reporting an issue, review your lease. It often outlines which maintenance responsibilities the landlord has and which you may have. For example, landlords typically handle structural repairs, plumbing, and heating issues, while tenants may be responsible for minor maintenance, like changing light bulbs or unclogging drains.
Document the Issue
When you notice a maintenance problem, document it immediately. Take clear photos or videos, especially if it’s something that could worsen over time, like damage or mould. Keeping records will help if repairs are delayed or if there are disputes over responsibility.
Report the Problem to Your Landlord or Property Manager
Notify your landlord or property manager as soon as possible. Most rental agreements require tenants to submit maintenance requests in writing, so send an email or use the property’s maintenance request system if available. Be clear and specific about the problem, when it started, and how it affects your living conditions.
Follow Up If Necessary
Follow up politely if you don’t receive a response within a reasonable time. Most non-urgent repairs should be addressed within a few days to a few weeks, while urgent repairs (like heating failures in winter or plumbing leaks) should be handled immediately. If necessary, check your local tenant laws for specific repair timelines.
Understand Emergency Repairs
Some maintenance issues are urgent and require immediate action. These include:
No heat during winter
Burst pipes or flooding
Gas leaks or electrical hazards
Sewage backups
If your landlord doesn’t respond to emergency repair requests, you must contact local housing authorities or a professional service, if allowed under your lease.
Keep a Record of Communications
Always save emails, texts, or written letters regarding maintenance requests. This documentation can be helpful if issues aren’t resolved in a timely manner, and you need to escalate the situation.
Know Your Rights as a Tenant
If a landlord refuses to make necessary repairs, you may have legal options depending on where you live. Many areas have tenant protection laws that allow renters to withhold rent, make repairs and deduct the cost, or file a complaint with local housing authorities. Research your rights to understand what actions you can take.
Handling maintenance issues in your rental doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing your lease, documenting problems, and communicating clearly with your landlord, you can ensure that repairs are completed efficiently. Being proactive about maintenance keeps your rental in good condition and makes for a smoother renting experience.
References
Tribunals Ontario. (n.d.-b). Brochure: Maintenance and repairs. https://tribunalsontario.ca/documents/ltb/Brochures/Maintenance and Repairs (EN).pdf
How to get repairs done - federation of metro tenants’ associations. (n.d.). https://www.torontotenants.org/how_to_get_repairs_done
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