April 10, 2025
Maintaining a rental home is a shared responsibility between landlords and tenants.
Knowing how to report maintenance issues properly can help ensure fast and effective repairs while preventing small problems from becoming major headaches.
Understanding Tenant vs. Landlord Responsibilities
It is important to know what repairs your landlord is responsible for and what falls under tenant maintenance duties before submitting a maintenance request.
Common Landlord Responsibilities:
- Major plumbing issues (e.g., leaks, clogged drains affecting multiple units)
- Electrical malfunctions (e.g., power outages not caused by the utility company)
- Heating and cooling system failures
- Structural damage (e.g., roof leaks, broken windows, unsafe flooring)
- Appliance repairs (if included in the lease)
- Pest control (depending on the situation and lease agreement)
Common Tenant Responsibilities:
- Basic home upkeep (e.g., replacing light bulbs, air filters, smoke detector batteries)
- Keeping the property clean and free of excessive debris
- Addressing minor plumbing issues like clogged sinks or toilets
- Properly using provided appliances to prevent damage
- Reporting damages as soon as they occur
Important Note: If a drain is clogged and it is determined that the blockage was caused by the tenant (e.g., hair buildup, grease, or foreign objects), the tenant will be responsible for the cost of the repair.
How to Report a Maintenance Request
Step 1: Identify the Problem
Be as specific as possible when describing the issue. Instead of saying, “The sink is leaking,” specify where the leak is coming from and how severe it is. Providing details and photos can help speed up the repair process.
Step 2: Submit a Maintenance Request
- Online Portal: The best way to submit a maintenance request is through our tenant portal. Log in and provide a detailed description of the issue. Submit a request here.
- Call Us: For urgent repairs, such as a broken heater in the winter, call (419) 385-5555 to ensure immediate attention.
Step 3: Allow Access for Repairs
After submitting your request, our maintenance team or an approved contractor may need access to the property. Be sure to communicate preferred times for entry or any special instructions regarding pets or security concerns.
Step 4: Follow Up If Needed
Most non-emergency repairs are addressed within a reasonable time frame. If you haven’t received an update, check your tenant portal or call our office to follow up on your request.
Emergency vs. Non-Emergency Repairs
Not all maintenance issues require immediate action. Here’s how to determine the difference:
Emergency Maintenance Issues (Report Immediately)
- No heat in winter or no air conditioning in extreme heat
- Burst pipes or major plumbing leaks
- Electrical hazards (sparks, exposed wires, frequent power loss)
- Gas leaks (leave immediately and call emergency services)
- Flooding or major water damage
- Broken locks or security concerns
Non-Emergency Maintenance Issues
- Dripping faucets or slow drains
- Minor appliance malfunctions
- Cracked tiles or worn carpets
- Small pest issues (unless stated otherwise in the lease)
Preventing Maintenance Issues
- Keep drains clear by avoiding grease and food waste buildup.
- Clean air filters regularly to maintain HVAC efficiency.
- Notify management early before minor issues escalate.
- Secure windows and doors to prevent leaks and drafts.
Our Final Thoughts
Buckeye Northwest Realty is committed to providing all tenants a safe and comfortable living environment. By understanding how to report maintenance issues properly, you can ensure quick resolutions and maintain the quality of your rental home.
Need to submit a maintenance request?
- Submit your request online: Tenant Portal.
- For urgent concerns, call us at (419) 385-5555
