Renting an apartment is a common choice. It allows you more flexibility than buying and it’s perfect if you don’t know where you might be in a few years. Also, you will save a ton of money when it comes to maintenance and repairs. However, it isn’t always peaches and cream. There are some problems and complications that can often come up during your time renting an apartment. This article will take a look at a variety of different problems varying from fixing a leaky faucet to dealing with a bad landlord.
1. Complications With Landlords/Bad Landlord
If you rent an apartment, you will have to deal with a landlord. Most of the time, you luck out with a great landlord. Other times, you’re out of luck. There are a number of different things a landlord could do that could give you an indicator that you’re stuck with a bad landlord. For example, if a landlord doesn’t get back to you right away or is overly intrusive, be wary.
The best practice is to get everything in writing so you know what they can and can’t do. Create a contract between the two of you that covers things like acceptable time for repairs, acceptable time for them to get back to you, privacy agreements, and such. If they break the contract on a consistent basis, seeking professional legal advice might be the next step.
2. Fix a Leaky Faucet or Pipe
While landlords or building superintendents are often in charge of repairs, they may not always be around. As a result, it’s a good idea for you to know how to make a few minor repairs yourself. One of the most common complications you might be faced with is a leaky pipe or faucet. Not only can the constant dripping drive you a little insane but it can make a big mess. All you normally have to do here is get the right tool and tighten it back up to stop the leak. Be careful not to make things worse though.
3. You Don’t Have The Rent Money
Let’s face it, things happen. An unexpected expense or unplanned medical bill could derail your finances and stop you from coming up with rent money. First and foremost, be upfront and honest about it with your landlord. If you have a good relationship with your landlord and they trust you, they might just be willing to work with you and let you pay at a later date. However, if they don’t agree to this, you might have to resort to asking family/friends for more, taking out a loan or selling things. An emergency fund is a savior in times like this.
4. Neighbors Who Aren’t So Neighborly
If you’re renting an apartment it’s hard to escape neighbors. Most of the time, neighbors are aware of their surroundings and usually respectful, but that’s also not always the case. We’ve all heard horror stories regarding bad neighbors. If you have a conflict with your neighbor you should try to work it out on your own. Having a conversation with them about concerns you might have (as well concerns they might have) can go a long way. If they won’t cease disruptive activity despite the initial conversation you should make the landlord aware of what’s happening.
5. Critter Visitors
When it starts to get a little bit chilly outside little critters like mice and rats try to escape the rough conditions. This may include coming into your apartment or walls for protection. While the landlord should definitely be alerted if you feel you have a rodent problem you can also be on the proactive side. Do a search of the apartment and look at places where you think they could possibly be getting coming in from. Once that has been determined, set some traps and hope for the best.
6. Bored With The “Look”
Sometimes, renting can just get boring over time. A big con about most rentals is that you can’t paint or make any permanent cosmetic changes to the apartment. However, it doesn’t have to be boring. There are many different options you can use to give your apartment that personality it might be lacking. Artwork is always a great option, as is upgrading your decor. If you have a really great landlord, they also may allow you to paint the walls if they approve of the color choice, or if you agree to paint it back before you leave. Being proactive and asking them before making a large and permanent change is always advised, or you can say bye-bye to your damage deposit.
7. Patch a Hole
Holes are almost surely to accumulate throughout your time renting an apartment. Whether they are smaller holes from nails or screws, or larger holes from a doorknob most holes can be fixed by anyone. A bit of spackle and some sanding is enough for almost all holes. If you have a larger hole you may need to find some scrap drywall, screw it into place, and then sand and paint for a seamless finish.
8. Fixing the Toilet
The toilet is definitely one of the most used items in any home and as a result it goes through some wear and tear. One of the most common problems with the toilet is not being able to flush. Don’t waste your maintenance guy’s time. This is normally a simple fix. If the toilet can’t flush, first tip is to check the chain. If it’s loose or unattached, simply attach and try flushing. If the chain wasn’t unattached, you may have to release the handle and its inner components, which can all be bought on the cheap.
Note: All electrical work should be done by a trained professional.
