Are you renting a property? You're not alone. In the US, renters occupied approximately 43.32 million housing units in 2021.
However, as a tenant, you must be aware of several legal and optional property maintenance responsibilities that fall on your shoulders. Understanding these responsibilities is crucial for maintaining a harmonious relationship with your landlord. It also ensures a pleasant living environment for yourself and your neighbors.
Are you curious about the responsibilities that fall on your shoulders? Keep reading as we explore this topic in more detail.
Legal Tenant Property Maintenance Responsibilities
Before we discuss the optional duties the tenant is responsible for, it's vital to understand the legal ones first. Here are three non-negotiable property maintenance responsibilities.
1. Keeping The Rental Clean
As a tenant, you are legally obligated to keep the rental unit clean and sanitary. This includes regular cleaning of the living spaces, kitchen, and bathroom. It's essential to adhere to basic hygiene standards to prevent the accumulation of dirt, grime, and potential health hazards.
2. Disposing of Garbage
Proper disposal of garbage is another legal responsibility of tenants. This involves:
- Using designated trash bins
- Recycling appropriately
Maintaining a clean and odor-free environment is essential for the well-being of everyone in the vicinity. If garbage is not properly disposed of, it can attract pests, such as cockroaches, ants, and rodents. Failure to adhere to this rule could result in a fine or eviction notice being issued.
3. Repairing Things The Tenant Breaks
Accidents happen, and as a tenant, it is your legal duty to repair any damages that result from your actions or negligence. It doesn't matter whether it's a:
- Broken window
- Damaged door
- Malfunctioning appliance due to mishandling
Optional Tenant Property Maintenance Responsibilities
Now that you know what property maintenance responsibilities are legally yours and the penalty for noncompliance, it's time to review some optional responsibilities. These duties don't have to be carried out, but undertaking them has several benefits.
1. Painting Interior Walls
While the responsibility for painting the interior walls often falls on the landlord, some tenants may take on this task as an optional responsibility. This typically involves seeking permission from the landlord before any painting begins.
Garden Maintenance
If the rental property includes a garden or outdoor space, maintaining it could be an optional responsibility for tenants. Especially those with a green thumb. This may involve:
- Mowing the lawn
- Weeding flower beds
- Basic landscaping
This contributes positively to the overall curb appeal of the property. However, garden maintenance might be your responsibility if detailed in the lease agreement under a property maintenance clause. For this reason, ensure you review your tenancy agreement before shirking any duties.
Get Expert Advice Today
Understanding and fulfilling legal and optional property maintenance responsibilities is essential for a positive rental experience. Tenants should adhere to legal obligations like cleanliness, garbage disposal, and damage repair to contribute to a well-maintained living environment. They can also enhance the rental property by doing optional tasks like painting interior walls.
Are you looking for expert property management in North Dallas? Contact PMI North Dallas today for a seamless and stress-free experience.
Let a skilled property manager handle your property management needs with professionalism and expertise. Get in touch now for a free rental analysis!
