Key Takeaways
- Landlords are responsible for major repairs that keep the property safe and livable, while tenants usually handle smaller fixes and damages they cause.
- Clear lease agreements, good communication, and knowledge of state laws help prevent disputes over repair responsibilities.
Why Repair Responsibilities Matter
When you rent a house, one of the most common questions is: Who handles repairs? Whether it’s a broken water heater, pest infestation, or a leaking roof, knowing who pays for what is crucial for both landlords and tenants.
Repair and maintenance for rental property isn’t just about convenience. It ties directly into legal obligations, tenant rights, and property value. A clear understanding of responsibilities upfront helps both sides avoid disputes and keeps the rental home safe and functional.
What Landlords Are Responsible For Fixing
Landlords are legally required to provide a habitable rental property. That usually means they must handle:
- Structural issues like roofs, foundations, and exterior walls
- Plumbing and major water line repairs
- Heating, cooling, and hot water systems
- Electrical wiring and essential fixtures
- Major appliances that came with the home
- Safety items such as locks, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide alarms
Most state laws clearly define these responsibilities. If landlords fail to address them, they could be in violation of habitability standards. Many property owners rely on a property management company to handle repair requests, oversee regular maintenance, and make sure everything complies with state laws.
What Tenants Are Responsible For
Tenants also share responsibility for keeping the rental in good shape. This typically includes routine tasks such as:
- General cleaning and upkeep
- Replacing air filters or light bulbs
- Yard care, if required by the lease
- Small fixes like unclogging drains or tightening handles
- Covering damage caused by negligence, like broken windows or holes in walls
If damage is caused by misuse or neglect, landlords can bill tenants directly or deduct repair costs from the security deposit when the lease ends.
Can a Landlord Make a Tenant Pay for Repairs?
In some cases, yes. A landlord cannot make a tenant pay for normal wear and tear or for systems that fail due to age. But tenants may be charged if:
- Damage was caused by negligence (such as flushing items that clog plumbing)
- Repairs are needed because of unauthorized alterations or misuse
- A tenant delayed reporting a problem, and the delay caused further damage
Many lease agreements outline these expectations. For example, a clause might state that tenants cover minor repairs under $50, while landlords handle major repairs. Having this in writing helps avoid misunderstandings later.
Tenant Rights During Major Repairs
When significant repairs are needed, such as a collapsed ceiling or a furnace failure in winter, tenants have specific rights. Landlord-tenant laws generally require landlords to:
- Respond quickly to repair requests
- Complete repairs within a reasonable timeframe
- Provide temporary solutions or accommodations if the property becomes uninhabitable
In some states, tenants can use the repair and deduct method. This allows them to arrange the repair themselves and subtract the cost from rent. Because rules vary by state, tenants should check local laws or seek legal advice before using this option.
Who Handles Plumbing Repairs?
Plumbing is one of the most common areas of dispute. Typically:
- Landlords cover major issues like broken pipes, failed water heaters, or sewer line problems.
- Tenants are responsible for clogs or damage caused by improper use.
If the problem is due to age or normal wear, the landlord pays. If it’s caused by negligence, the tenant may be billed.
Pest Infestation and Pest Control
Pest control responsibilities depend on the cause. Landlords are typically responsible for infestations that make the property uninhabitable, such as termites, bedbugs, or rodents.
Tenants may be responsible if poor housekeeping or uncollected trash caused the issue. For example, a cockroach problem that stems from unsanitary conditions would likely fall on the tenant.
Do Rental Homes Charge for Maintenance?
Tenants are generally not charged for routine maintenance or emergency repairs that fall under landlord obligations. However, if a tenant requests service for something that is clearly their responsibility—like replacing a light bulb or air filter—some landlords may pass on the cost if the lease allows it.
Common Disputes Over Repairs
Even with clear guidelines, disputes can still happen. The most frequent issues include:
- Delays in repair response from landlords
- Disagreements over whether something is wear and tear or negligence
- Tenants hiring outside contractors without landlord approval and expecting reimbursement
Strong lease agreements and open communication are the best tools for avoiding these conflicts.
Tips for Landlords and Tenants
For Landlords
- Respond promptly to repair requests and document all communication.
- Schedule regular maintenance to prevent emergencies.
- Consider using a property management company to coordinate repairs, track requests, and ensure compliance with state laws.
For Tenants
- Report issues as soon as possible so they don’t escalate into bigger problems.
- Keep written records of repair requests and landlord responses.
- Review your lease agreement carefully so you understand your responsibilities before disputes arise.
FAQs About Repair Responsibilities
Landlords cover major systems and safety issues, while tenants handle minor upkeep and damages they cause.
Yes, but only when the damage is due to negligence or misuse—not normal wear and tear.
Routine cleaning, small repairs, and damages they personally cause.
Anything that affects habitability, including structural repairs, plumbing, electrical systems, and pest control when it’s not caused by tenants.
Landlords pay if the issue is tied to the property itself. Tenants pay if their actions caused the infestation.
Final Thoughts
So, who handles repairs when you rent a house? In most cases, landlords must make sure the home is safe, functional, and up to code, while tenants are responsible for day-to-day upkeep and any damages they cause.
Pest control, plumbing, and emergency repairs usually fall to the landlord, but tenants should act quickly to report issues and avoid bigger problems. Since state laws vary, both parties should understand their responsibilities and refer back to the lease agreement for clarity.
At Connecticut Property Management, we take the guesswork out of repair responsibilities. Our team coordinates maintenance, handles tenant requests, and ensures your rental property stays in compliance with state law—all while protecting your investment.