One of the most common questions that comes up between landlords and tenants is: who takes care of repairs? It might seem straightforward, but the answer depends on the type of repair, the lease agreement, and local laws. Understanding these responsibilities is important for both sides because it helps avoid confusion, keeps the property in good condition, and ensures everyone knows what to expect.
Landlord Responsibilities
In most cases, landlords are responsible for keeping the property safe and livable. This means handling repairs that affect the structure, safety, or basic functioning of the home. If the roof leaks, the plumbing breaks, or the heating system stops working, it’s usually the landlord’s job to fix it. These repairs aren’t just about comfort—they’re about making sure the property meets health and safety standards.
Landlords also need to maintain essential services. For example, if the electrical wiring fails or the water supply is interrupted due to a problem with the property itself, the landlord must step in. These responsibilities are part of what makes renting fair: tenants pay rent to live in a functional space, and landlords ensure that space stays in good condition.
Tenant Responsibilities
Tenants, on the other hand, are generally responsible for everyday upkeep and minor fixes. If a light bulb burns out, a drain gets clogged because of hair, or the apartment needs basic cleaning, those tasks fall to the tenant. Tenants are also expected to take care of the property and avoid damage caused by negligence.
For example, if a tenant breaks a window by accident or damages the carpet with spills, they’re usually responsible for repairing or covering the cost. The lease agreement often spells out these responsibilities clearly, so both sides know where the line is drawn.
Shared Responsibilities
Sometimes, repairs fall into a gray area. For instance, if an appliance stops working, the responsibility depends on the lease. In some cases, landlords provide appliances and agree to repair or replace them. In other cases, tenants are expected to handle appliance maintenance themselves.
Communication is key in these situations. A good lease agreement should outline who is responsible for what, but when in doubt, tenants should report issues to landlords quickly. This way, problems don’t get worse, and both sides can figure out the best solution.

The Role of Preventive Maintenance
Repairs often come down to whether the issue could have been prevented. Landlords are expected to perform regular maintenance, like servicing heating systems or checking for leaks, to avoid bigger problems later. Tenants, meanwhile, should use the property responsibly and report issues early.
Preventive maintenance saves money and stress for both sides. A small leak fixed quickly is much cheaper than repairing water damage months later. When landlords and tenants work together, repairs become less of a burden and more of a shared effort to keep the property in good shape.
Financial Side of Repairs
Repairs aren’t just about responsibility—they’re also about cost. For landlords, repairs are part of the business of owning rental property. The good news is that repairs on rental property are normally tax deductible. This means landlords can subtract repair costs from their rental income when calculating taxes, which helps offset the expense.
Tenants don’t get tax deductions, but they benefit from living in a well-maintained property. When landlords invest in repairs, tenants enjoy a safer, more comfortable home.
Legal Considerations
Local laws often back up these responsibilities. Many regions have landlord-tenant laws that require landlords to keep properties habitable. These laws cover essentials like heating, plumbing, and structural safety. Tenants also have legal obligations to avoid damaging the property and to use it responsibly.
If disputes arise, the law usually favors keeping the property safe and livable. That means landlords can’t ignore major repairs, and tenants can’t refuse to take care of basic upkeep.
Conclusion
So, who is responsible for repairs in a rental property? The answer depends on the type of repair, the lease agreement, and local laws. Generally, landlords handle major repairs and structural issues, while tenants take care of minor fixes and everyday upkeep. Preventive maintenance and clear communication make the process smoother for everyone.
For landlords, repairs are part of the business, and the tax system helps ease the burden since repairs on rental property are normally tax deductible. For tenants, knowing their responsibilities ensures they live in a safe, functional space. In the end, repairs are about partnership—both sides working together to keep the property in good condition and make renting a positive experience.