Resolving household problems can be quite troublesome. Whether it’s the incessant dripping of a leaky tap that drives you to distraction or the unfortunate event of a malfunctioning fridge leading to wasted food, such issues can be quite bothersome. As a tenant, it’s understandable that you desire a swift resolution when things go wrong. So, what is the most effective way to communicate with your landlord and ensure timely repairs?
Typically, repairs and maintenance in a rental property fall under the responsibility of the landlord. As a tenant, you need to wait for them to address the issue. Therefore, it’s crucial to know how to reach out to the right person. When you initially move in, it’s advisable to obtain and safely keep the contact details for this purpose.
If the property is managed by an agent, contact them to report any problems. In the case where the landlord directly manages the property, reach out to them personally.
Who manages the property?
It may seem like an obvious consideration, but many tenants are unsure of whom to contact when faced with breakdowns or repairs. Hence, it is vital to clarify this aspect from the beginning and ensure you have the necessary information at hand.
Assess the level of urgency
Assessing the urgency of the situation is key. While a slight loss of water pressure in the shower may not be as critical, a malfunctioning boiler, affecting heating and hot water, demands immediate attention. Once you become aware of such urgent matters, promptly notify your landlord, allowing them to initiate the repair process.
For less pressing issues, such as a loose curtain pole or a noisy dishwasher, it may be appropriate to report them during your next inspection or scheduled maintenance visit.
Provide full information
To facilitate effective resolution, it is important to provide your landlord with comprehensive information. Even the most dedicated landlord may not be familiar with the specific make and model of all the appliances in your property. Therefore, whether you choose to send an email or a text message, ensure you include pertinent details. Mention the make and model number of the appliance, enabling them to order parts or inform their maintenance personnel accordingly. Describe the problem that has occurred and provide specific details about how and when it happened. This level of detail should also extend to non-appliance-related issues. The more information you provide, the faster the issue can be addressed.
Call or email?
When it comes to communication, it’s generally recommended to initiate contact with your landlord via email or text message, particularly for non-urgent matters. If you don’t receive a response within a couple of days, it is advisable to follow up with a phone call.
It is worth noting that in some cases, you may feel comfortable handling certain problems on your own. However, it is always prudent to consult your tenancy agreement to determine if you should take this approach.
If you’re looking to rent a property or you’re a landlord with a vacant residence, give our team a call.
