Avoid Large Repairs by Communicating with Tenants

It could be lack of concern or the fear of being labeled a complainer, but many tenants will not bother you with minor maintenance issues.

For example, a small drip in the bathroom ceiling may seem a small annoyance to a tenant but could indicate a much larger problem that should not be left unattended. Explain to tenants that no problem is too small to bring to your attention and that you want to address even minor issues before they become bigger.

One way to keep tabs on routine maintenance issues is to conduct regularly scheduled safety inspections during the year. One or two per year is probably sufficient, but it is a good idea to inform all tenants at lease signing of this policy.

For ongoing repairs, let your tenant know they need to contact you immediately when they notice a problem so you can address it. Remind them of your contact numbers, and be responsive when they do call.

I’ve talked with many landlords who end up with big repair issues that could have easily been avoided if only the tenant would have called the landlord when it was just a small repair.