Renting a property can be an excellent way to secure a comfortable living space while enjoying flexibility and convenience. However, as a tenant, it's important to keep in mind that maintaining your rental property is just as important as paying rent on time. While landlords are responsible for major repairs and maintenance, as a tenant, you have a role to play in keeping your rental property in good condition. In this blog, we'll offer guidance and resources for tenants who want to keep their rental property in good condition. 

Cleaning and Caring for Different Types of Flooring 

One of the most common ways to keep your rental property in good condition is by cleaning and caring for different types of flooring. Different flooring materials require different care, so it's essential to know what kind of flooring you have in your rental property. For example, hardwood floors need to be swept or vacuumed regularly to remove dirt and debris, and spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent damage. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, should be cleaned with a damp mop and a mild cleaning solution, avoiding abrasive materials that can scratch the surface. 

Caring for Carpet 

If your rental property has carpeted floors, regular vacuuming is essential to remove dirt, dust, and other debris that can accumulate over time. In addition to vacuuming, it's also a good idea to schedule professional carpet cleaning at least once a year to keep your carpets looking and smelling fresh. 

Fixing Basic Plumbing Issues 

Basic plumbing issues can occur in any rental property, from leaky faucets to clogged drains. While it's always best to contact your landlord for major plumbing issues, there are some basic plumbing issues that you can fix yourself. For example, if you have a clogged drain, you can use a plunger to try and clear the blockage. If this doesn't work, you can try using a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to dissolve the blockage. However, if you're unsure about how to fix a plumbing issue, it's always best to contact your landlord for help. 

Troubleshooting Common Appliance Problems 

Appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines are essential to any rental property. However, these appliances can break down or experience problems from time to time. As a tenant, it's important to know how to troubleshoot common appliance problems to avoid calling a repair person unnecessarily. For example, if your refrigerator isn't cooling properly, you can check to see if the door is properly closed or if the temperature settings need to be adjusted. 

Resources for Tenants 

While these tips can help tenants keep their rental property in good condition, there are also resources available for tenants who need additional guidance or support. For example, many hardware stores offer free classes on basic home repairs and maintenance. Online resources, such as YouTube videos and DIY blogs, can also provide valuable information and step-by-step instructions for maintaining a rental property. 

If you're currently searching for a rental property, we invite you to consider Coastline Equity. We offer a wide variety of properties to suit different budgets and needs, and we prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of our properties to ensure our tenants have a comfortable living experience. Contact us today to learn more about our available properties and schedule a viewing.