Common Tenant Concerns and Typical Rental Repairs

What to Know

Renting a home or apartment comes with shared responsibilities between tenants and landlords or property managers. As a tenant, it’s important to know what issues are common, which repairs are typically your responsibility, and what your property manager or landlord will usually handle. Understanding these boundaries helps avoid confusion, encourages timely maintenance, and contributes to a positive rental experience. Common Tenant Concerns and Typical Rental Repairs

1.  Common Tenant Concerns

While every rental property is unique, some concerns tend to arise more frequently across homes and units:

• Pest Issues: Insects like ants, cockroaches, and occasional rodent sightings are not uncommon. Most lease agreements outline that general pest control (especially caused by food or cleanliness issues) is the tenant’s responsibility, while structural pest issues may fall under the landlord's or HOA's responsibilities.

• Noise Complaints: Whether it’s loud neighbors, traffic, or foot traffic upstairs, noise can be a concern in multi-unit properties. While property management may intervene in cases of excessive or ongoing disturbances, resolving day-to-day noise issues often requires polite and neighborly communication.

• Maintenance Delays: Sometimes, tenants feel frustrated by delays in addressing repair requests. Keep in mind that non-emergency repairs are often handled in the order they’re received and within a standard response window. Many times, as a third-party management company, the landlord prefers multiple estimates for high-dollar repairs or prefers to use a home warranty company, which can delay the repair process.

• Mildew & Odors: Musty smells, discolorations, or mildew (especially in bathrooms or around windows) may be due to ventilation or humidity issues. Tenants should clean affected areas and report more serious concerns, especially if related to leaks or structural damage.

2. Typical Repairs: Who Handles What?

To keep expectations clear, here’s a general breakdown of common repairs and who is typically responsible:

Tenant Responsibilities

• Replacing light bulbs and smoke detector batteries

• Keeping the unit clean and sanitary

• General pest control (unless stemming from a structural defect)

• Unclogging drains or toilets due to tenant use

• Replacing HVAC filters regularly

• Lawn care and trash disposal (as stated in lease)

Landlord/Property Manager Responsibilities

• Major system repairs (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)

• Structural issues, roof leaks, and water damage

• Appliances provided with the unit

• Remediation related to leaks or the structure issues

• Ensuring the unit meets habitability and safety standards

3. Nevada-Specific Tenant Rights and Landlord Obligations

Nevada law (NRS Chapter 118A) outlines the duties and rights of both tenants and landlords:

• Repairs and Habitability: Landlords must maintain rental units in a habitable condition, including running water, heat, working plumbing, and structural integrity.

• Timely Repairs: Tenants must provide written notice for repairs. If the issue affects health or safety, landlords have 14 calendar days to address it, per NRS 118A.355.

• Entry and Notice: Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property, unless there is an emergency (NRS 118A.330).

• Withholding Rent: Tenants may not withhold rent without taking legal action or obtaining court approval, even if repairs are pending.

• Retaliation Prohibited: Landlords may not retaliate against tenants for reporting legitimate repair issues or code violations (NRS 118A.510).

For complete guidance, tenants can also reference the Nevada Landlord-Tenant Handbook published by the Nevada Legal Services.

4. Reporting Repairs the Right Way

Always report maintenance issues promptly and in writing when possible In your tenant portal. Make sure to include:

• A clear description of the problem

• Location of the issue

• Photos or videos, if available

• Any urgent safety concerns

Emergency repairs should be reported immediately, while non-urgent items may be addressed within the legal repair window.

Property Leak Repair

Communication is Key

Open, respectful communication with your landlord or property manager can go a long way in resolving issues quickly. If you’re ever unsure about responsibilities, refer to your lease agreement or reach out to us directly.

Need to Submit a Repair Request or Ask a Question?

Click below to contact our team or submit a maintenance form today.

👉 Submit Maintenance Request