Repairs are a normal part of renting, but many renters don’t know where the line is between “nice to fix” and legally required. In general, landlords are expected to keep the apartment safe, functional, and livable. That means certain problems must be handled — not delayed indefinitely or pushed onto tenants.
This guide explains common repair categories landlords must typically handle by law, plus practical steps renters can take to request repairs and keep good documentation.
Note: This is general information, not legal advice. Exact rules can vary by location and building type.
Most legal repair obligations connect to habitability. If a problem affects:
health
safety
basic utilities
secure entry
sanitation
it is usually treated as landlord responsibility.
Landlords generally must maintain working essential systems, such as:
reliable hot water
building heating systems (where provided)
safe electrical service
stable plumbing systems
If essential systems are unreliable or nonfunctional, it should be treated as high priority.
Plumbing is one of the most common maintenance areas landlords handle.
Examples typically include:
broken toilets or sinks (building-side issues)
recurring drainage problems
pipe-related water issues
building-wide water pressure problems
If the issue is structural or building-related, it usually falls on the landlord.
Electrical issues can become serious quickly. Common landlord responsibilities include:
outlets not working due to wiring issues
unsafe fixtures or exposed wiring
building electrical problems
persistent breaker issues caused by faulty systems
Tenants should avoid DIY electrical fixes and request professional handling.
Landlords generally must maintain core building elements such as:
safe floors and stairs
secure windows and frames
stable ceilings and walls
common area condition (when landlord-controlled)
Even when an issue looks “cosmetic,” it can become a safety problem if it affects stability or creates hazards.
Basic security is part of habitability.
Landlords commonly must handle:
broken or unreliable apartment door locks
insecure building entry doors
damaged frames that prevent proper locking
access systems that are landlord-controlled
Safe and secure entry is a basic tenant expectation.
If pests are present due to building conditions, landlords typically must address:
rodents
roaches
recurring infestations in multiple units
structural openings that allow pests in
Even if a tenant keeps the unit clean, building-level pest issues still require landlord action.
Not every apartment includes the same appliances, but if appliances are provided as part of the rental, landlords typically maintain them.
Often included:
stove/oven
refrigerator (if provided)
built-in systems tied to the unit
Always check the lease to confirm what is included.
Many locations require basic safety equipment.
Landlords typically handle:
required smoke detectors
required carbon monoxide detectors (where applicable)
proper installation and working condition
If devices are missing or not functioning, it should be reported quickly.
A professional, documented approach protects you.
Best practice:
Request repairs in writing (message/email)
Describe the issue clearly and calmly
Attach photos or short video
Include date and timeline (when it started)
Save all communication
Written records reduce misunderstandings and keep expectations clear.
Timing depends on severity:
urgent issues (essential services, safety) should be handled quickly
non-urgent issues may take longer but should not be ignored
The key is consistent communication and a clear plan.
Landlords are generally responsible for repairs that affect safety, habitability, essential utilities, secure entry, and building integrity. Knowing what repairs are typically landlord obligations helps renters communicate confidently, document issues properly, and avoid being pressured into accepting unacceptable conditions.
A calm request + written records is one of the strongest tools a renter has.
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