Who is generally responsible for property maintenance in a rental situation?

In a typical rental arrangement, the landlord holds the primary responsibility for property maintenance unless the lease agreement stipulates otherwise. This responsibility includes ensuring that the property is habitable and meets health and safety standards, which involves making necessary repairs and maintaining common areas. Rental laws often outline the landlord's obligations to provide a functioning and safe environment for tenants.

While a rental agreement can transfer some maintenance duties to the tenant—such as minor upkeep or maintenance of the yard—it is generally understood that the landlord must address significant repairs and structural issues. The presence of a property management company may also influence who handles certain maintenance tasks; however, the ultimate responsibility still lies with the landlord as the property owner, unless explicitly delegated through an agreement.

Understanding this division of responsibilities is crucial for both landlords and tenants, as it shapes expectations and obligations throughout the rental period.