As a renter, it’s important to be aware of the most common damages that can occur in a rental home. This way, you can take steps to prevent them from happening or at least mitigate the damage if they do occur. The most common damages in rental homes are:
Water damage from leaks
Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems in rental homes. It can be caused by everything from a faulty washing machine hose to a leaking roof. To prevent water damage, don’t wait to fix any leaks, no matter how small they seem. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for signs of mold, which can indicate past water damage. If you see any mold, have it removed immediately by a professional. Taking these precautions will help you avoid costly repairs down the line.
Fire damage
One of the most common types of damage in rental homes is fire damage. Fires can be caused by a number of factors, including faulty electrical wiring, careless cooking, and smoking indoors. To prevent fire damage, it is important to take some basic precautions. Never overload electrical outlets, and keep flammable items like candles and lighters away from heat sources. If you smoke, be sure to do so outside. By taking these simple steps, you can help to prevent fire damage in your rental home.
Damage from pests
Another common type of damage found in rental homes is damage from pests. Pests like mice and rats can cause serious damage to a rental home, gnawing through walls and wires and spreading disease. To prevent pest damage, keep food sealed up tightly and don’t leave any crumbs around. Be sure to call a pest control company at the first sign of any infestation. In addition, be on the lookout for signs of cockroaches, ants, or other insects. These pests can also cause problems if they are not dealt with quickly. If you see any sign of pests, be sure to contact your landlord or property management company right away so they can take care of the problem.
Damage from the weather
One of the most common types of damage that rental homes suffer is damage from the weather. This can include everything from a broken window to a roof replacement. In Salt Lake City, roof replacements are particularly common due to the heavy snowfall that the area receives. Snow and ice can put a lot of strain on a roof, and over time this can lead to leaks and other problems. As a result, it’s important for landlords to keep an eye on their roofs and make sure that they’re in good condition. By doing so, they can help to prevent major damage from the weather and keep their tenants safe.
Pet damage
Pets can be great companions, but they can also cause a lot of damage to a rental home. Chewing on walls and furniture is one common way that pets can damage a rental, and accidents on the carpet are another. To prevent pet damage, it’s important to train your pet well and to keep them supervised when they’re inside the house. If you’re renting with roommates, it’s also important to make sure everyone is on the same page about pets before moving in together.
Tenant-caused damage
Unfortunately, not all damage to rental homes is caused by accidents or natural disasters. Sometimes, tenants themselves can cause intentional or unintentional damage to their rented space through carelessness or maliciousness. To prevent tenant-caused damage, it is important to always follow the rules set forth in your lease agreement and take good care of your rented space. Be respectful of your roommates and neighbors, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Cosmetic damages
One of the most common types of damage that tenants cause in rental homes is cosmetic damage. This can include things like scratches on walls, stains on carpets, or dents in doors. While these may not seem like big deals at first, they can add up over time and end up costing you at move-out time. To avoid being charged for cosmetic damage beyond normal wear and tear, take good care of your rental home and clean up any messes as soon as they happen.
Landscaping damages
Lawns need regular maintenance including mowing, fertilizing, and watering. Failing to properly take care of your lawn may result in dead patches, weeds, and other problems. In some cases, your landlord may require you to get permission before making changes to the landscaping. Before undertaking any major lawn projects, be sure to check with your landlord first.
