8 Most Common Rental Repairs and Problems You Should Know About

As a landlord, ensuring your rental property is in good condition is not only crucial for maintaining its value but also for keeping your tenants happy and satisfied.

Understanding the most common rental repairs and problems that can arise is key to being a proactive and responsible property owner.

For this reason, we'll explore the most prevalent rental repairs that landlords should be aware of, from water leaks and garbage disposal system problems to cold water and a broken appliance.

By familiarizing yourself with these common issues, you'll be better prepared to address them promptly, ensuring a smooth and pleasant renting experience for both you and your tenants.

1. Plumbing Issues

Plumbing problems are among the most common issues that landlords encounter in rental properties.

In addition to impacting your residents' quality of living and comfort, ignoring these issues can lead to costly damages, such as water leaks, mold growth, and property deterioration. They can also waste water, leading to higher water bills.

Here are some examples of common plumbing issues landlords and property managers may come across in an investment property:

• Leaky faucets
• Leaky pipes
• Clogged toilets or toilet leaks
• Clogged shower drains
• Clogged kitchen or bathroom sink drains
• Malfunctioning water heater
• Lack of hot water
• Other water leaks

When addressing plumbing issues, it's important to identify the issue as quickly as possible. For leaks, you want to find where the water is coming from so that no further damage occurs.

For things like water heater malfunctions, you want to check for pilot light problems, faulty thermostats, and sediment buildup in the tank that may be making it so that there's no hot water.

2. Electrical Problems

Electrical problems are inconvenient for tenants at best. At worst, they post significant safety hazards in rental properties.

As a responsible landlord, it's crucial to prioritize electrical safety and promptly address any issues that arise.

Some examples of common electrical problems found in an investment property are listed below:

• Outdated wiring
• Damaged wiring
• Flickering lights
• Circuit breaker trips
• Non-responsive outlets and switches

Electrical systems can be tricky. Consider consulting a professional when handling any of these issues or making any upgrades to prevent them.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International and National Fire Protection Association also have guidelines and resources for electrical safety that landlords, property managers, and tenants alike should familiarize themselves with to stay educated, compliant, and safe.

3. HVAC Repairs

A well-functioning HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is essential for maintaining tenant comfort and satisfaction throughout the year.

Make sure your tenants are safe and comfortable by looking out for these common problems, which are associated with cooling, heating, and airflow issues:

• Inadequate cooling
• Refrigerant leaks
• Clogged air filters
• Faulty compressors
• Faulty pilot lights in heaters
• Ignition problems
• Ductwork issues
• Blocked vents

In addition to regular maintenance and professional inspections on a seasonal basis, you should consider upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems or installing programmable thermostats. Doing so is a great way to prevent some of these issues while reducing utility costs and enhancing tenant satisfaction.

4. Appliance Malfunctions

Well-functioning appliances are essential for tenants' daily living and convenience. For example, a malfunctioning refrigerator can lead to food spoilage, and a broken stove or oven can make it so that tenants cannot even cook.

Some necessary common rental property repairs that happen with appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, and dryers include the following:

• Thermostat malfunctions in refrigerator
• Compressor problems
• Clogged condensor coils
• Dishwasher drain pump issues
• Water inlet valve problems
• Faulty timers in washer machines
• Clogged vents in dryers
• Malfunctioning igniters in gas stoves
• Faulty heating elements

When it comes to appliances, some repairs are actually easy fixes that the tenant may be able to take care of. Ensure tenants have access to appliance user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and maintenance tips to promote proper usage and care.

If an appliance is old or repeatedly experiencing issues, consider replacing it with a new, energy-efficient model to reduce repair costs and enhance tenant satisfaction.

5. Roof Leaks

Roof leaks are also common rental property repairs that can have severe consequences if left unattended.

You should be aware of the signs of roof leaks and take proactive measures to address them promptly. Some signs include the following:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Dripping or pooling water during rain
• Musty odors or signs of mold growth in the attic or upper floors
• Missing or damaged shingles or tiles on the roof
• Water leaks coming from the ceiling

If you leave roof issues unaddressed, your rental property may experience water intrusion, causing damage to ceilings, walls, and structural components. Over time, this can weaken the property's integrity and result in costly repairs.

Excess moisture from roof leaks creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Mold infestations not only damage the property but can also pose health risks to tenants.

All of this leads to decreased property value in the end, and quickly. Prospective tenants may be deterred by visible signs of roof leaks during property showings.

Here are some tips for mitigating or addressing roof problems for your investment property:

• Regular Roof Inspections: Schedule regular roof inspections by a qualified roofing professional to identify potential leaks and assess the overall condition of the roof.
• Prompt Repairs: If a roof leak is detected, address it as soon as possible to prevent further water damage and mold growth. Engage a professional roofer for repairs or replacement, if necessary.
• Gutter Maintenance: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to facilitate proper water drainage and prevent roof leaks caused by overflowing water.
• Attic Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation helps regulate temperature and humidity levels, reducing the risk of condensation and mold growth.
• Roofing Materials: Consider using high-quality roofing materials during repairs or replacements to enhance the roof's durability and longevity.

6. Paint and Drywall Fixes

The appearance of a rental property plays a significant role in attracting and retaining tenants.

Therefore, to maintain a fresh and inviting living space for your tenants, you should address even minor property damage or wear and tear like paint and drywall issues before even listing your properties. For example:

• Peeling paint
• Chipped paint
• Holes and cracks in drywall
• Water stains

Moisture, aging paint, improper application, and general accidents can cause issues with paint and drywall. You should always address those underlying issues before making the repairs, especially when it comes to moisture. Make sure to tackle any water leaks, roof leaks, or plumbing issues before fixing unsightly water stains so you can prevent mold growth and continued issues.

Additionally, ensure proper surface preparation before repainting by cleaning, sanding, and priming the walls to achieve a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Use high-quality paint products that are durable and washable to withstand wear and tear and reduce the frequency of repainting.

By investing in paint and drywall repairs, landlords can maintain the visual appeal of their rental property and create a positive impression on potential tenants. A well-maintained interior enhances tenant satisfaction and sets the foundation for a harmonious landlord-tenant relationship.

7. Pest Control Services

Pest infestations can quickly turn a comfortable rental property into an unpleasant and unlivable space. Be proactive about pest control measures to protect the health and safety of your tenants and your investment property.

Here are some of the most common pests you should be prepared to address:

• Cockroaches
• Bed bugs
• Rodents
• Ants
• Termites

Many of these pests, such as rodents, find their ways into homes through cracks and openings. Identify and seal potential entry points for pests to prevent them from accessing the property.

Regular pest management measures also help protect the property from damage and maintain its value over time.

8. Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are critical safety devices that every rental property must have. These small devices play a crucial role in alerting tenants to the presence of smoke, providing early warning in case of a fire.

Make sure that smoke detectors are installed, properly maintained, and comply with local safety regulations.

Below are some things to keep in mind when it comes to smoke detectors.

Smoke Detector Requirements

Smoke detectors should be installed on each level of the rental property, including basements and attics. They should also be placed near bedrooms and sleeping areas to ensure maximum protection.

For added safety, consider using interconnected smoke detectors. When one detector detects smoke, it triggers all the interconnected units, providing a comprehensive warning throughout the property.

Regularly test smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries at least once a year, or when the low battery warning sounds. Additionally, it is essential to replace the entire smoke detector unit every 10 years.

Tenant Responsibilities

Educate tenants about the importance of smoke detectors and their role in fire safety. Instruct tenants not to tamper with or remove smoke detectors, as doing so can compromise their safety.

Also provide them with instructions on testing the detectors, reporting any issues promptly, and replacing batteries.

It's usually the tenant's responsibility to perform these replacements, so encourage them to replace smoke detector batteries if needed. If there are any issues, such as non-functional or malfunctioning detectors, they should report them to you.

Landlord Responsibilities

When it comes to smoke detectors, landlords have their own share of responsibilities:

• Installation: Ensure smoke detectors are installed correctly and meet local building codes and safety standards before tenants move in.
• Regular Inspections: Conduct periodic inspections to verify that all smoke detectors are in working condition and properly placed.
• Prompt Repairs: Address any reported issues with smoke detectors immediately. Faulty or non-functional detectors should be replaced promptly.

Smoke detectors are simple yet powerful tools that can make a life-saving difference in the event of a fire, making them a crucial component of any responsible landlord's safety measures.

Tips for Handling Common Rental Property Repairs

The best way to handle common rental property repairs is by addressing minor issues before they become big ones. Here are some tips for doing so:

• Encourage tenants to report any problems promptly so you can address them in a timely manner
• Consider hiring a professional for periodic inspections to catch potential issues early
• Regularly check and maintain your systems to prevent minor problems from escalating into major repairs
• Ensure tenants know how to use and care for different parts of their rental property to minimize the risk of malfunctions
• Consider upgrading your systems in older properties to meet current safety standards and minimize the risk of problems arising
• Have an emergency response plan in place in case of major problems, such as power outages, electrical fires, or flooding
• Understand what landlords are required to fix and what falls within the tenant's responsibility

Timely maintenance and repairs not only enhance the overall living experience for tenants but also contribute to the long-term value and appeal of the rental property.

By staying informed about these common issues and taking appropriate action when needed, landlords can foster positive tenant relationships, reduce tenant turnover, and ultimately achieve greater success in their rental property ventures.

Make Maintenance Easy with Property Management Software

Investing in the upkeep of the property and promptly addressing any issues that arise will undoubtedly yield long-term benefits and foster a harmonious and thriving rental property experience for all parties involved.

This could also mean investing in property management software!

Property management software like DoorLoop is a great way to stay on top of preventive maintenance and general maintenance requests for HVAC systems, clogged toilets, garbage disposals, electrical work, roof damage, and other common repairs.

You can remind tenants of their responsibilities, have them submit requests, assign tasks for to a licensed plumber or licensed electrician, and so much more.

See how DoorLoop can help you stay on top of your common rental property repairs and maintenance and nip issues in the bud before they cause extensive damage.