Landlord vs Tenant: Who is Responsible for Plumbing Repairs in a Rental Property?
There are instances wherein you may not have the means to acquire your own property just yet. In this case, you delve into renting first. On the other hand, you may have the means to invest in real estate, buying a property that you can rent out. When it comes to repairs though, particularly on plumbing issues, whose responsibility is it? Should it be shouldered by the tenant or the landlord? Read on to gain a good insight regarding this matter.
Landlord’s Responsibility
Being a landlord, you have many duties and responsibilities when it comes to the maintenance of your property. Thus, when it comes to plumbing issues and repairs, you need to ensure that you are on top of it. The experts behind the best plumbing companies Sydney wide suggest that you perform periodic maintenance in the plumbing structure of your property to ensure that any unfortunate plumbing surprises are avoided. In this way, both you and your tenant will be happy.
Apart from the plumbing structure of your property though, you are also responsible for the structural integrity of your property. You should also ensure that it meets local health and building codes and that you are conducting regular preventive maintenance to guarantee that your property is free from pests. You are also responsible for eliminating mould that results from water damage or leak.
Tenant’s Responsibility
While it is not your main responsibility as a tenant to have any plumbing issue fixed in the property you are renting, it is your duty to ensure that the plumbing system and fixtures in the house are in their best condition. In the event that any issues arise, you need to escalate this immediately to your landlord for appropriate repairs. You should also exert an effort to maintain the cleanliness of the property you are renting, keeping the premises sanitary as its condition permits. Apart from this, it is also your responsibility as a tenant to pay rent when it is due as well as to be considerate of the rights of your landlord and the other tenants in the property.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to plumbing issues on a rental property, the landlord should ensure that necessary repairs are made. On the other hand, it is the tenant’s responsibility to ensure the proper use of all the plumbing fixtures in a home. When the landlord and tenant are both aware of their duties and responsibilities, issues and misunderstandings will be avoided.