Essential Home Maintenance Tasks Every Renter Should Know

Understanding Your Responsibilities

Read Your Lease Agreement

Before doing anything, know what your lease says about maintenance responsibilities.

Typically landlord's responsibility:

• Major repairs (plumbing, electrical, structural)
• Appliance repairs/replacements
• HVAC system repairs
• Roof, foundation, exterior issues
• Pest control (in most cases)
• Safety equipment (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors)

Typically renter's responsibility:

• Minor repairs caused by misuse or negligence
• Keeping unit clean and sanitary
• Changing light bulbs
• Replacing batteries in smoke/CO detectors
• Basic drain maintenance
• Air filter changes (sometimes)
• Damage caused by renter or guests

Gray areas (check your lease):

• Air filter changes
• Yard maintenance
• Snow removal
• Gutter cleaning
• Pest control if caused by cleanliness issues

The Golden Rule:

Maintain the property as if you own it. Prevent small problems from becoming expensive repairs that could affect your security deposit.

Task 1: Change Air Filters (Every 1-3 Months)

Why It Matters

Dirty air filters:

• Reduce air quality
• Force HVAC system to work harder (higher energy bills)
• Can damage the HVAC system
• Worsen allergies and breathing issues

How to Do It:

Step 1: Locate the air return vent (usually on wall or ceiling, large rectangular grill)

Step 2: Remove the cover (may need screwdriver, often just lifts off)

Step 3: Note the filter size (printed on frame: 16x20x1, etc.)

Step 4: Slide out old filter

Step 5: Insert new filter (arrow on frame points toward airflow direction—into the duct)

Step 6: Replace cover

Cost: $5-15 per filter (buy multi-packs at hardware stores)

Frequency: Every 1-3 months depending on:

• Pets (more frequent)
• Allergies (more frequent)
• Season (more during heavy AC/heat use)

Check lease: Some landlords provide filters or handle this—know your arrangement.

Task 2: Reset Tripped Circuit Breakers

Why It Matters

Electrical issues happen. Power outages, overloaded circuits, or appliance issues trip breakers. Knowing how to reset prevents unnecessary emergency calls.

How to Do It:

Step 1: Locate electrical panel (usually in closet, garage, or utility area)

Step 2: Open panel door

Step 3: Identify tripped breaker (will be in middle position between "on" and "off," or fully "off")

Step 4: Fully switch to "off" position first, then flip to "on"

Step 5: If it trips immediately again, don't keep resetting—call landlord (electrical issue needs professional)

Common Causes:

• Too many devices on one circuit (space heater + microwave + coffee maker = overload)
• Faulty appliance
• Short circuit
• GFCI outlet needs reset (bathroom/kitchen outlets)

Prevention:

• Don't overload circuits
• Unplug devices not in use
• Replace damaged cords

Task 3: Unclog Basic Drain Issues

Why It Matters

Slow drains are annoying and lead to worse problems if ignored.

Kitchen Sink:

Step 1: Remove standing water with cup/container

Step 2: Try plunger (flat-bottom plunger, not toilet plunger)

Step 3: Check garbage disposal—run with cold water, may need reset button underneath unit

Step 4: Use drain snake if plunger doesn't work

Prevention:

• Don't pour grease down drain (solidifies in pipes)
• Run cold water when using disposal
• Avoid fibrous foods (celery, potato peels) in disposal
• Use drain strainer to catch food

Bathroom Sink/Tub:

Common cause: Hair accumulation

Solutions:

• Remove drain cover
• Pull out visible hair with gloved hand or tool
• Use drain snake for deeper clogs
• Plunger for minor clogs

Prevention:

• Use hair catcher drain cover
• Clean drain cover weekly

Toilet:

Step 1: Use toilet plunger (cup-shaped with flange)

Step 2: Create seal over drain hole

Step 3: Push and pull vigorously 10-15 times

Step 4: If doesn't work, use toilet auger (drain snake for toilets)

Never use chemical drain cleaners in toilet—damages pipes and doesn't work on most clogs.

When to call landlord:

• Multiple drains backing up (main line issue)
• Sewage smell
• Water backing up elsewhere when draining
• Plunging/snaking doesn't work

Task 4: Stop Running Toilets

Why It Matters

Running toilet wastes water (utility cost increase) and that constant sound is maddening.

Common Causes and Fixes:

Flapper valve issue (most common):

Symptom: Water continuously runs into bowl

Fix:

1. Remove tank lid
2. Flush and watch flapper (rubber valve at bottom)
3. If doesn't seal properly, it's worn—needs replacement
4. Turn off water valve behind toilet (turn clockwise)
5. Flush to empty tank
6. Unhook old flapper, snap on new one ($5 at hardware store)
7. Turn water back on

Float adjustment:

Symptom: Water runs into overflow tube

Fix:

1. Adjust float height (bend float arm down or adjust clip on float)
2. Water should stop 1 inch below overflow tube

Fill valve issue:

More complex—call landlord if above fixes don't work.

Task 5: Replace Light Bulbs and Fixtures (Simple Ones)

Why It Matters

Burnt-out bulbs are your responsibility. Changing them is basic adulting.

Standard Bulbs:

1. Turn off light switch
2. Let bulb cool if just used
3. Unscrew/twist counterclockwise
4. Screw in new bulb (match wattage—check fixture or old bulb)

Note bulb type for next time:

• LED (most efficient, last 10+ years)
• CFL (spiral, energy-efficient)
• Incandescent (traditional, least efficient)

Recessed/Can Lights:

Some twist and pull down, others have clips you squeeze—varies by fixture.

When to call landlord:

• Light doesn't work even with new bulb (electrical issue)
• Fixture is damaged or hanging loose
• High ceilings requiring tall ladder

Task 6: Test and Maintain Smoke and CO Detectors

Why It Matters

Life safety. Non-negotiable.

Monthly:

• Press test button
• Should beep loudly
• If doesn't, replace battery immediately

Every 6 months:

• Replace batteries even if working (or when changing clocks for daylight saving)
• Vacuum dust from detectors

Never:

• Remove batteries because it's "annoying"
• Ignore chirping (low battery warning)
• Paint over detectors

If detector is hardwired and malfunctioning, call landlord immediately—this is their responsibility to fix.

Task 7: Clean and Maintain Appliances

Why It Matters

Proper maintenance extends appliance life and prevents damage you could be charged for.

Refrigerator:

Every 3-6 months:

• Pull fridge out
• Vacuum coils on back or bottom (dust reduces efficiency)
• Clean door seals with mild soap
• Check for expired food weekly

Dishwasher:

Monthly:

• Remove food trap at bottom, clean
• Run empty cycle with vinegar or dishwasher cleaner
• Wipe door seals

Washing Machine:

Monthly:

• Run cleaning cycle with washing machine cleaner or vinegar
• Wipe door seal (front-loaders especially—mold prone)
• Leave door open after use to air out

Oven:

As needed:

• Wipe spills immediately when cool
• Run self-clean cycle or use oven cleaner
• Don't let grease accumulate (fire hazard)

Dryer:

After every load:

• Clean lint trap (fire hazard if neglected)

Every few months:

• Vacuum vent hose
• Check exterior vent—ensure not blocked

Task 8: Prevent and Address Mold

Why It Matters

Mold damages property and affects health. Preventing it protects your security deposit and wellbeing.

Prevention:

Bathrooms:

• Run exhaust fan during and 20 minutes after showers
• Wipe down shower walls after use
• Keep surfaces dry
• Fix leaks immediately

Kitchen:

• Run exhaust fan when cooking
• Wipe condensation from windows
• Don't leave wet items sitting

General:

• Keep humidity under 50% (use dehumidifier if needed)
• Ensure proper ventilation
• Report water leaks immediately
• Don't block air vents

Small Mold Spots:

• Clean with vinegar or diluted bleach (1:10 ratio)
• Wear gloves and mask
• Scrub, rinse, dry thoroughly

When to call landlord:

• Large mold areas (over 10 square feet)
• Mold returns after cleaning (indicates moisture issue)
• Mold caused by building defect (leaky roof, pipe, window)

Task 9: Winterize and Prevent Frozen Pipes (Cold Climates)

Why It Matters

Frozen pipes burst, causing massive water damage. Prevention is your responsibility.

Prevention:

• Keep heat at minimum 55°F even when away
• Open cabinet doors under sinks during extreme cold (lets warm air circulate)
• Let faucets drip slightly during freezing nights
• Insulate exposed pipes with foam covers
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
• Close foundation vents (if applicable)

If pipes freeze:

1. Turn off water main
2. Open affected faucet
3. Apply heat to frozen section (hair dryer, heating pad—never open flame)
4. Call landlord/emergency maintenance

Task 10: Basic Pest Prevention

Why It Matters

Pests damage property and are your responsibility if caused by cleanliness issues.

Prevention:

Kitchen:

• Store food in sealed containers
• Don't leave dishes overnight
• Take trash out regularly
• Clean spills immediately
• Keep counters and floors clean

General:

• Seal cracks and gaps around pipes, windows, doors
• Don't leave pet food out
• Fix water leaks (moisture attracts pests)
• Vacuum regularly

When to call landlord:

• Major infestation
• Structural issues allowing entry
• Building-wide pest problem
• Pests present when moving in

What to Report to Your Landlord Immediately

Always report these—they're landlord's responsibility and delay causes damage:

• Water leaks (roof, pipes, windows)
• Mold (large areas or persistent)
• HVAC not working
• No hot water
• Electrical issues (sparks, burning smell, outlets not working)
• Gas smell (call gas company AND landlord)
• Broken locks or security issues
• Structural damage
• Pest infestations
• Appliance failures

Document everything:

• Take photos/videos
• Send written notice (email creates paper trail)
• Keep copies of all communication
• Note dates reported

Building Your Renter's Toolkit

Essential tools for basic maintenance:

• Plunger (sink and toilet)
• Drain snake
• Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)
• Adjustable wrench
• Flashlight
• Hammer
• Tape measure
• Utility knife
• Duct tape
• WD-40

Cost: $50-100 for starter kit

These handle 80% of minor issues renters encounter.

Knowing basic home maintenance as a renter empowers you to handle minor issues immediately, prevents small problems from escalating, and protects your security deposit. Change air filters regularly, reset tripped breakers, unclog basic drains, maintain appliances, and prevent mold through proper ventilation. Always report major issues to your landlord immediately—water leaks, electrical problems, and structural issues are their responsibility. Keep a simple toolkit, document all maintenance requests in writing, and understand what your lease specifies about maintenance duties. These skills serve you in every rental and demonstrate responsibility that strengthens future landlord references. A little preventive maintenance creates a more comfortable, functional living space.