Who is responsible for ongoing maintenance in a rental property?

The specifics of any maintenance responsibility should be outlined in the lease agreement between the landlord and tenant. It is important for both parties to understand their obligations under the lease and ensure they are upheld in order to maintain a safe and habitable living environment.

In most cases, the landlord or property owner is responsible for ongoing maintenance in a rental property. This includes repairs and upkeep related to the property’s structure, major systems (such as heating, plumbing, and electrical), and appliances provided by the landlord. In general the home must be maintained and not left to become in a state of disrepair. It is important to be proactive and perform ongoing maintenance in order to ensure the home maintains and or improves its value over time.

Tenants on the other hand are typically responsible for minor maintenance and repairs, such as replacing light bulbs, changing air filters, and keeping the property clean and free of damage caused by their own negligence or misuse. Maintaining a tidy home will help to reduce unexpected maintenance and minimize any damage they may cause.

When both the landlord and the tenant fulfill their obligations as stipulated in the lease this not only supports a positive working relationship, but it helps to avoid disputes, and provides overall satisfaction to both parties. The key to any successful relationship between the landlord and the tenant is communication.