The Top Things You Need To Let Your Landlord Know About

The Top Things You Need To Let Your Landlord Know About


Entering into a rental agreement means you’re legally bound to a contract between you and your landlord. Once a contract is signed, each party has certain rights as well as liabilities (which vary by state).

At the top of that list of rights includes a tenant’s safety. As such, you may have questions or concerns come up during your lease which could potentially impact your safety and the safety of those who live around you. If you choose to ignore or even hide potential or outright hazardous issues you could find yourself facing eviction -- or worse.

Here’s a quick list of the top things you need to let your landlord know about:

  1. Getting a pet. Adopting a pet is a wonderful change in your life! But your lease probably has provisions about pets on the property. Pets are a damage risk to the property owner, and most have policies, including pet damage deposits. So check out the rules and let your property manager or landlord know when you’ve added a furry friend to your family. Hint: A kitty in the window every day is a dead giveaway.
  2. Getting a roommate. Again, the provisions of your lease probably cover this, but if you’re depending on a roommate as a reliable source for part of the rent, the landlord must be informed. That way, they can make the required credit and background checks and everything will be on the up and up. Extra occupants mean extra wear and tear, more comings and goings and use of parking, etc. Chances are you won’t get away with an elicit occupant for very long.
  3. Maintenance issues. If you have a plumbing problem, don’t let it linger! It could cause damage, and the property owner wants to limit that as much as possible. While a tenant-caused plumbing issue may result in an additional charge, widespread damage from a plumbing issue will cost a lot more.
  4. Water stains. The occupants below may be the first to know when someone above has a plumbing problem. If you detect water spots on ceilings or walls, let the property manager or landlord know. On upper floors, water stains may indicate roofing leaks that could spread quickly and even be a safety issue for you and other residents.
  5. Insect infestation. Varying by your geographic location, insects are very often a problem in rental properties. If you have ants, roaches or bedbugs, let the landlord know. Your neighbors may be noticing too, especially if the bugs are indigenous. In many cases, taking care of insects is both a service provided by the property owner and a priority for them to avoid additional costs in eradication. Remember, too, that bugs are attracted to food, water, and warmth. A good way to avoid bug issues is to make sure you keep food sealed, and that your place stays tidy.


As a renter, you’re part of a community which includes your neighbors and your management/property owner. Being upfront about issues and changes is the best way to keep everybody safe within your community.


Related Resource

Trulia 6 Secrets You Shouldn’t Keep From Your Landlord

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