5 Overlooked Rental Areas That Often Need Repair

When landlords think of maintenance, the usual suspects come to mind—leaky faucets, HVAC filters, or paint touch-ups. But some of the most problematic repairs stem from areas that don’t always make the regular checklist. These overlooked parts of a rental may seem minor at first, but they often lead to costly issues if ignored.

Here are five commonly missed areas in rental properties that deserve more attention—and why it pays to keep them in check.

1. Behind and Beneath Appliances

It’s easy to forget what you don’t see. But what’s hidden behind your fridge, stove, or washer could be silently damaging your property. Dust buildup, slow leaks, and even pest activity tend to collect where cleaning doesn’t reach.

Moisture from slow plumbing leaks or condensation can rot the subfloor, warp baseboards, or create the perfect breeding ground for mold. This is especially true for stacked washer/dryer units or old dishwashers that haven’t been pulled out in years.

Maintenance Tip: Pull out appliances during turnovers or annual inspections. Check for water damage, clogged hoses, and clean out vents or filters. Preventative action here can save thousands in future floor or cabinet repairs.

2. Exterior Doors and Weatherstripping

While windows often get attention for drafts and insulation, exterior doors are just as critical—and often more frequently used. Over time, weatherstripping wears out, gaps form, and door sweeps get torn. This can let in pests, moisture, and cold air, driving up utility costs.

In regions with seasonal extremes, a poorly sealed door can be a tenant complaint waiting to happen. It can also cause HVAC systems to work harder, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

Maintenance Tip: Inspect all doors for drafts by checking for light around the frame or using a smoke pen. Replace brittle or cracked weatherstripping and tighten any loose hinges or locks.

3. Ceiling and Exhaust Fans

Ceiling fans are a tenant favorite, especially in warmer months—but they often go untouched when it comes to maintenance. Dust accumulation on blades can affect air quality and motor function. Worse, poorly installed or unbalanced fans can become noisy or even unsafe over time.

Similarly, bathroom exhaust fans play a critical role in controlling humidity. When neglected, they clog with dust and lose effectiveness, increasing the risk of mildew and moisture damage in bathrooms.

Maintenance Tip: During routine inspections, dust fan blades and test their operation. Ensure bathroom fans are venting properly—not just into the attic—and clean or replace filters where applicable.

4. Under-Sink Cabinets

Many landlords check faucets but forget to look below them. The space under kitchen and bathroom sinks is a frequent source of hidden trouble. Drips from supply lines or loose drain connections can go unnoticed for months, slowly warping cabinetry or causing mold buildup.

Because tenants may not use these spaces regularly—or may store cleaning supplies that hide signs of leaks—it’s easy for issues to fester unseen.

Maintenance Tip: Open up every under-sink cabinet at least annually. Run the water and inspect pipes during operation. Look for soft wood, bubbling finishes, or staining—all signs that something’s amiss.

5. Light Fixtures and Switch Plates

These are easy to overlook but often contribute to the “wear and tear” perception of a rental. Dingy switch plates, loose light fixtures, or flickering bulbs don’t just affect aesthetics—they can signal deeper electrical issues or tenant neglect.

Loose wall switches and broken plates can also be safety hazards, especially in homes with children. Plus, when light fixtures aren’t securely mounted, they can fall or short-circuit over time.

Maintenance Tip: Periodically inspect all light fixtures for stability and cleanliness. Tighten screws, check for exposed wires, and replace cracked or stained switch plates to keep things both safe and sharp-looking.

Don’t Let the Little Things Snowball

In property management, it’s often the quiet, out-of-sight issues that end up causing the biggest headaches. While a leaking faucet might get fixed right away, a slow drip under the sink could lead to thousands in cabinetry or mold remediation costs.

These five overlooked areas aren’t just about prevention—they’re about preserving the long-term value of your rental. Tenants notice when a property is cared for, and they tend to respond with more respect and fewer service requests when everything functions as it should.

RentalRiff’s local property specialists know how to spot these commonly ignored problem zones. Their thorough inspections help landlords catch issues before they become expensive problems, keeping rentals in top shape year-round.

Staying ahead of hidden maintenance areas doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It just takes the right eyes—and a regular plan to keep things in check.

Because what you don’t see today could cost you tomorrow.