During the tenancy.
WHAT YOUR OBLIGATIONS TYPICALLY ARE
Paying rent on time Using the property reasonably Reporting problems promptly Allowing access for repairs, with notice Not making alterations without permission
WHY REPORTING PROMPTLY MATTERS
Damage that worsens because it was not reported may become your responsibility.
WHAT TO REPORT IMMEDIATELY
Water leaks Electrical faults Structural problems Anything affecting safety
WHAT TO DO
Report in writing, and keep a copy.
WHY IN WRITING
Verbal reports are denied.
WHAT TO RECORD
What was reported, when, and the response.
WHAT TO DO IF REPAIRS ARE NOT DONE
Follow up in writing Establish what your rights are Consider what the agreement provides
WHAT TO AVOID
Withholding rent without establishing that you may.
WHY
It may breach the agreement and it can justify eviction.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
What the law in your jurisdiction permits.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT URGENT REPAIRS THE LANDLORD WILL NOT ADDRESS
Establish whether you may arrange them and deduct.
WHY ESTABLISH FIRST
Doing so without authority may not be recoverable.
WHAT TO KEEP
Records of every payment Every communication with the landlord Photographs of problems
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT ALTERATIONS
Written permission, before making any.
WHY
Alterations without permission may be charged to you at the end.
WHAT TO MAINTAIN
The property, reasonably.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT VISITORS AND SUBLETTING
What the agreement permits.
