Maintenance Troubleshoot Support Tips

Keeping your rental in tip-top shape not only ensures a more comfortable living experience but can also save you from potential headaches and expenses. As your property management team, we want to empower you with simple maintenance tips that can help you take care of minor issues before they turn into major problems. Here’s a handy guide to some basic maintenance skills every tenant should have:

1. Changing Light Bulbs
   Always have spare light bulbs on hand so that you can replace them as needed. Make sure to use the correct wattage to prevent electrical problems. If the light fixture is not working with a new bulb, it might be an issue with the fixture itself or the wiring— put in a maintenance request.
2. Testing Smoke Detectors
   Safety first! Regularly check your smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning properly. This is as simple as pressing the test button on the detector. If it beeps weakly or not at all, it’s time to replace the batteries. If your smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector is chirping, it probably needs a new battery. It is the tenant’s responsibility to ensure all alarms have functioning batteries.
3. Unclogging Drains
   A clogged drain can be a nuisance, but it’s often easy to fix without needing professional help. Before you put in a maintenance request, remove hair and debris from the drain. You can use a very inexpensive drain stick from a home improvement store to easily remove hair clogs. If that does not work try using a plunger. If that doesn’t work, mix equal parts of vinegar and baking soda and pour it down the drain. Wait for about an hour then flush with hot water. This natural method can clear minor clogs and is safe for your pipes. If these steps do not resolve the issue, please put in a maintenance request.
4. Clogged Toilets
   A clogged toilet is most often the tenant’s responsibility. First try to unclog the toilet using a plunger to clear the clog. If the toilet is still clogged after these steps, please proceed with a maintenance request.
5. Preventing Pest Infestations
   Preventing pests starts with keeping your space clean and food securely stored. Regularly take out the trash and keep counters and floors free of crumbs. If you spot signs of pests, such as droppings or damage, contact property management immediately to address the issue before it worsens.
6. Dealing with Leaks
   If you notice any leaks, whether from faucets, pipes, or toilets, report them as soon as possible. Even a small leak can lead to larger problems, including significant water damage or mold growth. While waiting for repair, try to contain the leak with a bucket or towel.
7. Power Outages
   Make sure the power is not out in the area by checking with your local power provider. Check the breakers. If the power is not out in the area and checking the breakers does not work, please proceed with a maintenance request.
8. A/C Not Working
   Check the filter and clean if dirty. Make sure the air filter is clean and properly installed. Maintaining a clean air filter is tenant responsibility. Please clean your air filter every 2-3 months. If cleaning the filter does not fix the problem, please proceed with a maintenance request.
9. Garage Remotes/Doors:
   The most common cause of garage door remote control failure is weak or dead batteries. If replacing the batteries does not work, or you have other issues, please proceed with a maintenance request.
10. Garbage Disposals:
    Clogged garbage disposals are most often the tenant’s responsibility, and should a technician need to assist, it will likely be the on the tenant’s dollar. Watch this video for help unclogging the disposal yourself to avoid the cost of a professional:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FL5GlsTzS-I
    If you’ve followed the steps in the video and the disposal is still clogged, please proceed with a maintenance request. Note: Do not use liquid drain cleaner in the kitchen sink, especially in a garbage disposal.
    TIPS: How to Avoid Clogs and Slow Draining Situations
    Do not put potato peelings, coffee grounds, or eggshells into your disposal. These items will stick to any sludge in the pipe and quickly create a clog. Avoid odors by also treating your disposal every month with a couple handfuls of baking soda and a half cup of vinegar. With the unit turned off, apply the mixture and allow it to finish foaming. Finally, rinse it down the drain with running water.