Checklist • Updated Dec 20, 2025 • 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.
Heads up: Every step here is designed to be safe and reversible. Always check your lease before making any changes, and leave gas, electrical, or structural issues to your maintenance team.
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.