Urgent Rental Property Issues: Immediate Actions for Tenants

What to do, list:

ALWAYS DOCUMENT DAMAGES (photo/video)

1. Water Leak or Burst Pipe

• Tenant Action:

  • Immediately shut off the water supply using the main valve.

  • Location of Water Shut-Off Valve: [___________________]

  • Notify the landlord or property management immediately.

  • Move personal belongings away from water-affected areas to prevent further damage.

2. No Heat or AC in Extreme Temperatures

• Tenant Action:

  • Contact the landlord or property management right away.

  • Check if the thermostat is functioning and verify that the HVAC system has power (reset circuit breakers if necessary).

  • Location of HVAC Circuit Breaker: [___________________]

  • If it’s an emergency due to extreme weather, seek temporary shelter until repairs can be made.

3. Power Outage

• Tenant Action:

  • Verify whether the outage is affecting only your property or the entire neighborhood (contact your power company if unsure).

  • Reset breakers in the electrical panel if the outage is isolated to your unit.

  • Location of Electrical Panel: [___________________]

  • If the problem persists after resetting breakers, contact the landlord or property management.

4. Gas Leak (Smell of Gas)

• Tenant Action:

  • Evacuate the property immediately and do not use any electrical devices or switches.

  • Call 911 or your local gas company to report the leak from a safe distance.

  • Notify the landlord after contacting emergency services.

  • Location of Gas Shut-Off Valve (if safe to access): [___________________]

5. Fire

• Tenant Action:

  • Evacuate the property immediately.

  • Call 911 and report the fire to emergency services.

  • Once safe, notify the landlord or property management.

  • Do not re-enter the building until cleared by emergency personnel.

6. Broken Window or Door (Security Concern)

• Tenant Action:

  • If the damage is from a break-in or other criminal activity, call the police first to file a report.

  • Secure the area temporarily (e.g., with cardboard, plastic, or plywood) to prevent further intrusion.

  • Notify the landlord for immediate repairs.

7. Sewage Backup

• Tenant Action:

  • Stop using all plumbing (toilets, sinks, showers) to avoid worsening the backup.

  • Notify the landlord immediately so the problem can be addressed by professionals.

  • Stay clear of the affected areas as sewage can pose health risks.

8. Pest Infestation (e.g., Rodents or Insects)

• Tenant Action:

  • Report the issue to the landlord or property management at the first signs of infestation (droppings, gnaw marks, etc.).

  • Keep the area clean and store food in sealed containers to prevent attracting more pests.

  • Follow the landlord’s instructions regarding pest control treatments.

9. Mold Growth

• Tenant Action:

  • Notify the landlord immediately if you discover mold, particularly if it’s extensive or recurring.

  • Increase ventilation in the area (open windows, use fans) to reduce moisture that encourages mold growth.

  • Avoid using bleach to clean large areas of mold; professional removal may be required.

10. Malfunctioning Smoke or Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Tenant Action:

  • Replace the batteries if necessary, and test the detector to ensure it’s working.

  • If the detector continues to malfunction or remains inactive, notify the landlord immediately.

  • Avoid staying in the property if the carbon monoxide detector is not working and there is potential risk of carbon monoxide buildup.

11. Broken or Malfunctioning Locks

• Tenant Action:

  • Notify the landlord immediately if the lock is broken or if there’s an issue with securing doors/windows.

  • Temporarily secure the property by using any additional locks (such as chain locks or deadbolts) until repairs are made.

  • Do not leave the property unsecured.

12. Flooding from Weather

• Tenant Action:

  • Move personal belongings to higher ground to prevent water damage.

  • Use towels, buckets, or sandbags to mitigate water intrusion if possible.

  • Notify the landlord immediately for emergency assistance and professional water removal.

13. Electrical Issues (Sparking Outlets or Exposed Wiring)

• Tenant Action:

  • Turn off the power to the affected area immediately using the circuit breaker.

  • Location of Circuit Breaker for Affected Area: [___________________]

  • Do not touch the outlet or switch until it has been inspected and repaired by an electrician.

  • Notify the landlord or property management as soon as possible to arrange for repairs.

14. Frozen Pipes

• Tenant Action:

  • If temperatures drop below freezing and water flow slows, turn on faucets slightly to allow a slow drip and prevent pipes from freezing.

  • Notify the landlord if the pipes freeze or burst.

  • Location of Main Water Shut-Off Valve: [___________________]

  • Do not attempt to thaw pipes with open flames; use a hairdryer or space heater instead if needed.