Last Updated on February 19, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
Eviction is one of the most stressful events a renter can face.
It creates the immediate challenge of finding a new place to live, often on short notice.
Even worse, it can lead to financial strain as deposits may be lost, and moving costs add up unexpectedly.
One common cause of eviction is unaddressed home damage.
These include problems that affect the rental property's safety, function, or appearance.
If left unchecked, landlords can take legal action, mainly if they believe the tenant has neglected essential maintenance.
In this post, let’s focus on the most critical home repairs to avoid costly complications with your landlord.
Imagine this: your roommate storms in, excitedly sharing, “My boyfriend opened a credit card in my name to help me build credit!”
In her enthusiasm, she tosses her keys onto the table but misses, accidentally shattering the window.
With unexpected timing, a thunderstorm rolls in, and rain begins to pour through the broken glass. Soon, cold drafts and water damage make the room uncomfortable.
If you find yourself in a scenario like this, addressing the damage immediately is essential.
Start by contacting your landlord as soon as possible to explain the situation and assure them that repairs are a priority.
Landlords generally appreciate tenants who communicate openly about issues, and reaching out promptly can help prevent further complications or misunderstandings about neglect.
In the meantime, take temporary measures to protect the property.
Cover the broken window with a sturdy plastic sheet to prevent rain and drafts, or use heavy-duty tape to seal the edges if needed.
These quick fixes can help limit further water damage and maintain comfort until a professional repair is arranged.
Water leaks and mold can lead to significant structural damage if left untreated.
When water seeps into walls, floors, or ceilings, it creates a damp environment where mold can thrive, impacting air quality and causing health concerns.
Mold can threaten anyone with respiratory issues and may require extensive cleaning and repairs.
Landlords are particularly vigilant about water damage and mold because these issues can rapidly worsen.
The mold that spreads to other parts of the property can also lead to costly repairs. Hence, landlords often quickly address mold if they believe tenants aren’t acting.
They might pursue an eviction, especially if the water leaks or mold results from neglect.
A few practical steps can help prevent water leaks and mold from becoming problematic.
Regularly inspect common areas like under sinks and windows for any moisture signs.
A mild cleaning solution can be helpful in cases of minor mold, but if the mold has grown extensively, inform your landlord so they can arrange proper treatment.
Using ventilation and keeping spaces dry are also effective ways to discourage mold.
Pests like rodents and cockroaches can damage property by gnawing on wires or contaminating food sources, leading to an uncomfortable and unclean environment.
Like mold, infestations can spread rapidly, especially in communal living spaces, making early action essential.
Landlords may hold tenants responsible for pest issues if they believe living habits are contributing factors.
Unaddressed infestations may lead to costly cleanup or extermination, and landlords may take swift action, including eviction if pest problems affect neighboring units.
To prevent infestations, regularly clean and maintain a tidy environment, store food in sealed containers, and dispose of garbage promptly.
Simple measures, such as using traps or repellents, can help manage minor issues.
However, inform your landlord about any severe infestations.
They may arrange professional pest control to ensure effective treatment.
Electrical issues like faulty outlets, flickering lights, or exposed wiring are serious safety hazards.
These problems can pose a risk of fires or electric shocks, which can endanger tenants and potentially cause property damage.
Even minor electrical concerns should be addressed promptly since they can escalate quickly and become more significant safety issues.
Landlords are typically quick to respond to electrical repairs, as these problems are directly linked to tenant safety.
Ignoring electrical issues may make your landlord question your responsibility as a tenant, and in severe cases, this neglect could contribute to eviction.
Electrical problems are often flagged during property inspections, so addressing them as soon as they arise is essential.
It's key to handling electrical issues safely. Unplug devices are connected to faulty outlets, so avoid using them until they’re repaired.
Notify your landlord immediately, who can arrange for a licensed electrician to address the issue.
Meanwhile, use alternatives like power strips for other outlets but keep safety as the top priority.
Clogged drains and toilets can disrupt daily routines and cause water overflow, potentially leading to water damage or mold growth.
Blockages often occur when paper towels, grease, or other non-flushable items enter the pipes.
Landlords view plumbing upkeep as essential, and delayed reporting of blockages may be viewed as tenant negligence.
Persistent plumbing problems can lead to expensive repairs that landlords want to avoid, and if the issue becomes too severe, it could lead to a warning or even an eviction notice.
Keeping drains in good condition is part of general tenant responsibilities.
As always, prevention is a good starting point. Avoid flushing non-flushable items and use drain strainers in sinks and showers.
Use a mild drain cleaner or pour hot water if you notice slow drainage.
When the issue persists, inform your landlord promptly to avoid further damage and show your attention to maintaining the property.
Prioritizing essential repairs is important for maintaining a positive tenant-landlord relationship and securing your place in a rental property.
Addressing these common issues quickly avoids eviction and creates a safer, more comfortable living environment.
