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When you’re managing a rental property, maintenance issues are inevitable—but how you choose to handle them can make all the difference. While many landlords handle repairs themselves or call in professionals, some situations raise a question: Should tenants handle minor repairs themselves?
It’s a tempting idea—after all, tenants are already living on-site and might be happy to fix small issues. But delegating repairs isn’t always straightforward. There are legal, practical, and tenant-relationship implications to consider.
Here’s a breakdown of the do’s and don’ts for landlords considering letting tenants take care of small repairs.
Do: Define What Repairs Are Acceptable for Tenants to Handle
Not all maintenance tasks are equal. Some jobs are safe and simple enough for tenants to manage, while others carry too much risk or require professional oversight.
Acceptable tasks might include:
- Replacing light bulbs or smoke detector batteries
- Unclogging toilets or drains using basic tools
- Resetting breakers
- Changing HVAC filters
For these types of repairs, it’s helpful to include them explicitly in the lease agreement or welcome packet so tenants know what’s expected.
Don’t: Let Tenants Handle Anything That Involves Safety or Compliance
Electrical work, gas lines, structural repairs, or anything involving plumbing beyond a simple clog should be off-limits. Allowing tenants to handle these repairs opens up serious liability issues—not to mention the risk of a job being done incorrectly.
Avoid delegating:
- Appliance repairs
- Roof issues
- Plumbing leaks
- Anything involving electrical wiring
- Pest control
Always err on the side of caution and hire licensed professionals for anything complex or hazardous.
Do: Make It Clear What Tenants Should Report Immediately
While some tasks can be tenant-managed, there are others you’ll want to know about as soon as they occur. Make sure tenants understand what requires immediate reporting:
- Water leaks or mold growth
- Signs of pest infestation
- Appliance malfunction
- Heating or cooling issues
- Security concerns (broken windows, locks, etc.)
Prompt reporting helps avoid damage escalation and shows tenants that you take their comfort seriously.
Don’t: Leave Repair Responsibilities Unwritten
If you’re open to tenants handling certain repairs, document everything. Verbal agreements lead to confusion—and possibly disputes later on.
Include a maintenance section in the lease that outlines:
- What tenants are expected to maintain
- What the landlord will handle
- The process for submitting maintenance requests
- Emergency repair procedures
Written guidelines protect both parties and set expectations from day one.
Do: Provide Guidance or Instructions When Appropriate
If a tenant is allowed (or expected) to fix something minor, make sure they have the resources to do it safely.
For example:
- Provide written instructions for resetting GFCI outlets
- Recommend safe tools and methods for plunging a drain
- Offer videos or links for basic DIY fixes
A little education can go a long way in preventing mishaps.
Don’t: Assume All Tenants Are Comfortable With Repairs
Not every tenant wants to—or should—take on repairs. Some may lack the tools, experience, or physical ability. Others may simply prefer to leave it to the professionals.
Even if a repair is listed in the lease as a tenant task, be flexible. It’s often worth the small expense of handling it yourself to maintain goodwill and avoid further damage.
Do: Offer Reimbursement for Approved Repairs (When Appropriate)
In certain cases, it makes sense to allow a tenant to hire a handyman or purchase supplies—if they get your approval first.
If a tenant reports a problem and you’re unable to address it quickly, you can give them permission to:
- Buy a replacement part (e.g., a toilet flapper or door handle)
- Call a pre-approved contractor
- Submit receipts for reimbursement
Just make sure the process and limits are clearly outlined in writing.
Don’t: Let Tenant Repairs Become a Legal Grey Area
Landlord-tenant laws vary by state, but most put the responsibility for habitability squarely on the landlord’s shoulders. Delegating repairs too liberally could be seen as a violation of these responsibilities.
Even if a tenant offers to help, you must ensure their involvement doesn’t put them—or your legal standing—at risk. When in doubt, consult your state’s landlord-tenant laws or speak with a property attorney.
The Balance: Empowerment vs. Overreach
Letting tenants handle minor repairs can save time, reduce friction, and even foster a stronger sense of responsibility. But it only works if it’s handled with clarity, consistency, and caution.
RentalRiff’s property specialists know when to step in and when to empower tenants—helping landlords maintain safe, well-managed homes without overburdening anyone involved.
Setting clear repair boundaries and offering support (when needed) allows tenants to feel respected, while keeping your property legally and physically protected. That’s the sweet spot for long-term rental success.