By Dez Duran-Lamanilao
Image source: Rentec Direct
There is always a first time for everything. If you happen to be the new tenant on the block or if this is your first tenancy, it is normal to experience apprehensions regarding the rules you and your landlord has agreed upon, especially if it is about the property’s maintenance.
While the property management team assigned to you will always be ready to offer you their services, you might still find these tips helpful when deciding on whether it is already the right time to request for their expertise. In fact, when you think something about the property is wrong or defective, there is a possibility that it can be resolved without having the need to call for emergency maintenance.
Real Property Management Azalea City offers the following suggestions that you can review before calling for maintenance:
- Problems with smoke detectors – Try replacing the batteries first. If this still fails, notify maintenance. You may also consider switching to a smoke alarm model with a lithium-ion power source that can last for up to 10 years.
- Water heater not functioning – Check thermostat and adjust as necessary or check breakers, furnace covers, and pilot lights, depending on the issue.
- Faucet or toilet leaks – Turn off the water fixture and notify maintenance.
- Dishwasher draining problems – In addition to cleaning food out of the dishwasher’s bottom, use jet dry at least once a month to prevent the accumulation of hard water.
- Abnormal refrigerator temperature – Check thermostat and set it correctly or clean out the drain hole. The drain hole catches the moisture which collects in a refrigerator, and if it gets blocked, this can cause problems for the rest of your refrigerator. Try avoiding too much debris from building up inside your fridge to avoid having to always deal with blocked drain holes.
Remember that your landlord is not the only one responsible for the upkeep of the property. You cannot depend on him for everything either. Unlike many other states, in Alabama, tenants are not allowed to withhold rent or deduct the costs of repair from your monthly rental despite a landlord’s failure to take care of important repairs.