One of the most common sources of disagreement in rental housing is determining who should pay for repairs and maintenance.
In general, landlords are responsible for major structural repairs and ensuring that the property remains safe and habitable. This includes issues related to plumbing systems, electrical wiring, roofing, water seepage, and major appliance failures that are not caused by tenant negligence.
Tenants, on the other hand, are typically expected to handle minor maintenance tasks and bear the cost of damages resulting from misuse, negligence, or improper handling of fixtures and appliances.
The exact division of responsibilities often depends on the rental agreement signed between both parties. Well-drafted agreements usually specify who is responsible for routine maintenance, emergency repairs, appliance servicing, and replacement costs.
Experts recommend that tenants document the condition of a property before moving in and promptly report maintenance issues to avoid future disputes. Landlords are also advised to clearly define repair obligations in lease agreements.
As India’s rental housing market continues to grow, clarity on maintenance responsibilities is becoming increasingly important for ensuring smooth landlord-tenant relationships and preventing legal conflicts.
