Handling apartment maintenance

Things break. Knowing who is responsible, and how to ask, makes repairs easier. WHO PAYS FOR WHAT • Landlord: Major repairs, structural problems, plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances that came with the apartment. • Tenant: Everyday wear and tear, small fixes, and damage you caused. Your lease should spell it out. STEPS • Tell the landlord right away, in writing (a WhatsApp message is fine). • Describe the problem and add photos. • Follow up if you do not hear back in a few days. • Keep all messages and receipts. FINDING HELP • Ask the landlord for their preferred repair person. • Ask neighbors and community groups for plumbers, electricians, and handymen. • Get a quote before work begins. TIPS • Do small things yourself and report big ones. • If the landlord refuses urgent repairs, you may be able to arrange them yourself and deduct the cost. Check your lease and local law first. • Photograph the apartment when you move in and again when you leave.