Checklist • Updated Jan 12, 2026 • 14 min read
Renter maintenance checklist (monthly + seasonal)
This checklist focuses on reversible, low-risk tasks renters can do to prevent common issues. If something looks like a leak, electrical hazard, or structural problem, document it and contact maintenance.
At a glance: This is designed to prevent the most common “deposit killers”: hidden leaks, humidity/mold risk, drafts, and stuck hardware. It’s also a great way to catch problems early so maintenance can fix them before they get expensive.
Important: These guides focus on low-risk, reversible steps. If your lease forbids a modification (or the task involves gas/electrical/structural work), stop and contact maintenance.
Tools (keep it simple)
- Phone camera (documentation is half the win).
- Flashlight (leaks hide in corners).
- Microfiber cloth (wipe + detect returning moisture).
- Dish soap (safe, useful).
- Optional: small hygrometer (humidity meter) if you’re fighting condensation/mold risk.
Monthly (15 minutes)
| Task | What to look for | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Under sinks | Moisture, musty smell, swelling wood | Wipe dry, take a photo, report if it returns |
| Bathroom ventilation | Foggy mirrors that linger 20+ min | Run fan longer, crack door, clean fan cover if dusty |
| Window/door drafts | Cold air near frames | Mark spots with painter's tape; plan a reversible seal |
| GFCI outlets (if present) | Outlet won't reset | Stop using it and contact maintenance |
| Doors & hinges | Squeaks, rubbing | Use the quick fixes in this guide |
Monthly details (quick but effective)
Under sinks
- Run your hand along the cabinet floor (dry vs damp is obvious).
- If anything is damp, dry it and check again the next day (overnight leak test).
- If you smell sewer gas, run water briefly to refill the trap; if it persists, file a ticket (see under-sink smell checklist).
Bathroom ventilation
- Run the fan during showers + 15–20 minutes after.
- If the mirror stays fogged 20+ minutes, ventilation may be weak (see fan cleaning).
Drafts & comfort
- Mark drafts with painter’s tape so you can apply reversible sealing later (see drafty windows).
- Draft reduction also helps prevent condensation on cold window surfaces (mold risk).
Seasonal (every 3–4 months)
- HVAC filter (if you have access): replace if your lease allows it and it's the tenant's responsibility.
- Fridge coils (if accessible): vacuum gently to improve efficiency (unplug first).
- Check caulk and grout: if water is escaping a tub/shower edge, report it early.
Quarterly add-ons (5 minutes)
- Bathroom fan grille: clean dust so airflow stays strong.
- Showerhead: quick vinegar soak if you have hard water (helps pressure).
- Windows: vacuum tracks so they don’t start sticking.
- Toilet: quick “listen test” for random refills (early sign of flapper wear).
Yearly (once a year)
- Document the unit condition: wide photos of each room for your records.
- Check smoke/CO alarms (report issues; don’t disable).
- Review your move-in notes so you’re ready if anything becomes a dispute later.
Move-out month (the “deposit saver” pass)
- Walls: patch small holes if allowed (see move-out wall fixes).
- Doors/windows: make sure everything opens/closes smoothly; stuck windows can become a move-out note.
- Under sinks: catch small drips early—water damage is one of the most common deductions.
When to stop and call maintenance
- Active leak, water stains growing, or repeated moisture.
- Burning smell, buzzing outlets, or frequent breaker trips.
- Persistent mold growth, especially on porous surfaces.
- Gas smell (leave and call emergency services / landlord per your local guidance).
Maintenance ticket template (copy/paste)
Subject: Maintenance request — [issue] in [location]
Hi [Landlord/Maintenance], I noticed [issue] in the [location] on [date]. It appears [intermittent/constant] and I’ve attached photos/video. Could you please inspect and repair as needed? I’m available [times]. Thank you.
Optional: photo checklist (fast tickets)
- Wide shot (location context)
- Close-up (the actual issue)
- Short video for noises/running water/low pressure
- Timeline (“started X days ago; happens daily”)
FAQ
- Is this “too much” for a renter? No—this checklist is designed to be low-risk and mostly observational. You’re not doing licensed work; you’re catching issues early.
- What if my lease says “don’t repair anything”? Follow the lease. You can still document, clean, and request maintenance quickly.
- What’s the #1 deposit saver? Catching leaks early and documenting with photos.