While renting a property, a landlord and a tenant chalk a rental agreement that includes each aspect of the property to keep everything under check. The rental agreement includes the rental time frame, the rent to be paid and the list of things that the tenant and the landlord are responsible for, including the things that may require repair and maintenance in the house.
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What is the responsibility of the landlord when renting a property?
A landlord is responsible for giving the tenant a damage-free and habitable house. Before giving the house, he should ensure that all necessary things are working fine, including:
- Fans
- Lights
- Regulator
- Switches
- Geyser
- Door locks
- Window slider
Repair work on a property
In a property, there are two kinds of repairs – structural and ongoing.
A landlord is responsible for structural repairs, such as filling cracks, fixing seepages and repairing tiles. Furthermore, things like leaky faucets and jammed doors should be fixed by the landlord, however, they do not demand urgent attention.
Ongoing repairs are those which happen due to wear and tear. Getting these repaired is the responsibility of the tenant unless mentioned in the contract.
See also: How does a rent court resolve tenant-landlord disputes?
Should the landlord repair issues that have been caused by the tenant?
No. Any issue caused during the stay of the tenant because of their action is not the responsibility of the landlord. For instance, if the tenant drills a hole in the wall and accidentally bursts a water pipeline, getting it rectified is the tenant’s responsibility.
Should the tenant repair pre-existing damage?
No. Pre-existing damage should be repaired by the landlord.
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It is a good idea for a landlord to make a list of all working fixtures and fittings in a house before giving it on rent. Photos and videos of the entire house should be shared with the tenants before they step in so that they are aware of the property’s condition. Any damage that occurs after their stay and because of them should be attended to by them unless mentioned otherwise in the agreement.
FAQs
What are the two types of repairs in a house?
Ongoing and structural repairs are the two types of repairs in a house.
If a tenant causes damage to a property then how can a landlord recover it?
If a tenant causes damage, a landlord can recover it by making the tenant pay or by adjusting it against the security deposit.
Is it mandatory for a tenant to paint the house before moving out?
No. Nothing is mandatory unless mentioned in the registration document.
How to avoid discrepancies between landlord and tenant?
A detailed rental agreement, stating all the terms and conditions, is important to avoid any discrepancy between tenant and landlord.
What to check when a landlord gives his appliances to a tenant?
All appliances offered by the landlord should be compliant with safety and health standards.
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