Rental property can be a great investment but it comes with responsibilities. One of the biggest challenges landlords face is keeping on top of maintenance and repairs. Whether it’s a small leaky tap or a big roof damage, timely repairs are key to keeping tenants happy and your property in good nick. 

Let’s take a look at ten common rental property repairs landlords need to deal with and how to do it.

1. Leaky Taps and Toilets

One of the most common repair requests landlords get is for leaky taps or toilets. A slow dripping tap may seem like a small issue but over time it can waste a lot of water and increase utility bills. A running toilet will increase water costs too.

Leaky taps are usually caused by worn out washers or seals which can be replaced easily. A leaky toilet is usually caused by a faulty flapper or fill valve which are cheap parts that can be swapped out. Acting fast on these repairs not only prevents water waste but shows you’re a responsible landlord who looks after the property.

2. Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are another common problem, caused by hair, grease or foreign objects in the pipes. Tenants often report slow draining sinks or bathtubs and in some cases complete blockages.

Minor blockages can be cleared with a plunger or drain cleaner, but more severe blockages will require a plumber. Give your tenants tips on what not to put down the drains like oil or large food particles to prevent recurring problems.

3. Boiler and Heating System Failures

In winter months having a working heating system is crucial for tenant comfort and legal compliance. Boiler and heating system failures are one of the most serious repair requests landlords get. These breakdowns are usually caused by lack of maintenance or old equipment.

Landlords should schedule annual servicing of the boiler and heating systems to prevent sudden failures. If a breakdown does occur it’s important to act fast as tenants can be uncomfortable or even at risk of health in extreme cold. Having a trusted heating engineer on standby is always a good idea.

4. Roof Damage

Roof damage is another big repair issue landlords need to keep an eye out for, especially after storms or harsh weather. Missing tiles, leaks or structural damage can lead to further problems like damp or mould if not addressed quickly.

Regular roof inspections especially after extreme weather can catch minor problems before they get out of hand. Small repairs like replacing a few tiles are cheap but ignoring them can lead to bigger and more expensive repairs down the track including water damage inside the property.

5. Electrical Issues

Electrical problems can range from faulty sockets to more serious issues like exposed wiring or tripped circuits. These can inconvenience tenants and pose serious safety risks. Landlords are legally required to ensure the electrical systems in their rental properties are safe and up to code.

It’s best to schedule regular electrical inspections and address any issues as soon as they’re reported. While some issues like replacing a faulty light switch can be done quickly, anything more serious should be left to a licensed electrician.

6. Damp and Mould

Damp and mould are common problems in rental properties, especially in older buildings. These issues are usually caused by poor ventilation, leaks or water infiltration and can lead to health problems if not treated.

Landlords should investigate the cause of damp and mould whether it’s a leaking pipe, condensation or a roof leak. Ensuring bathrooms and kitchens are well ventilated and repairing leaks quickly can prevent these issues from recurring. Regular inspections can help you catch signs of damp before it gets out of hand.

7. Broken Appliances

Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers or refrigerators are often provided by landlords in furnished or part-furnished properties. However these appliances can break down over time due to wear and tear or misuse by tenants.

It’s best to have clear guidelines in the tenancy agreement on what happens when appliances break down. Regular servicing of high use appliances like boilers, washing machines and refrigerators can extend their life. If an appliance breaks landlords should aim to repair or replace it quickly to avoid tenant dissatisfaction.

8. Window and Door Repairs

Broken windows or malfunctioning doors are not only an inconvenience but can also compromise the security of the property. Common issues are broken locks, draughty windows or doors that no longer fit their frames.

These are usually simple repairs like fixing a lock or replacing window seals but should be done quickly. Ensuring windows and doors are in good condition not only makes the tenant more comfortable but also prevents energy loss and potential burglaries.

9. Pest Control

Pests like mice, rats or insects can become a big problem if not addressed quickly. While it’s usually the tenant’s responsibility to maintain cleanliness and hygiene, landlords are responsible for having the property pest free at the start of the tenancy.

If tenants report a pest problem it’s best to investigate quickly. In some cases professional pest control services will be required. Sealing any cracks or gaps where pests can enter can prevent future infestations. Proactive measures like installing mesh screens over ventilation grates or keeping the property well maintained can also help.

10. Wear and Tear on Flooring and Paintwork

Over time even the best maintained rental property will show signs of wear and tear especially on high traffic areas like flooring and walls. Scratches, scuff marks and chipped paint are common in rental homes especially if tenants have been living there for several years.

Regular touch ups and occasional repainting is part of maintaining a property’s appeal and to ensure it’s in good condition for new tenants. Flooring may need to be replaced or repaired from time to time especially in entryways or hallways. Installing durable materials like laminate or tile in high traffic areas can reduce the need for frequent repairs.

Be Proactive

While you can’t avoid all repairs, being proactive with property maintenance can reduce the number of repairs you need to do. Regular inspections, scheduled maintenance and addressing minor issues before they become major problems are key to keeping your rental property in good condition.

Clear communication with tenants is also important. Encourage them to report issues early to prevent small problems from becoming big. Give them a simple way to request repairs and respond quickly when they do and you’ll keep the property well maintained and tenants happy.

In a nutshell, being a good landlord is all about staying on top of property maintenance. Leaky taps, broken appliances and pest infestations are part of the reality of owning rental properties. By fixing these issues quickly, landlords not only preserve the value of their asset but also keep their tenants happy which means longer tenancies and fewer vacancies.