Most tenants are content to delegate upkeep to the landlord. After all, one of the key advantages of renting is the maintenance service. Service calls, on the other hand, are inconvenient. In the long term, you’ll be responsible for any harm to your apartment as a result of your carelessness. Follow a few simple apartment maintenance tips to keep your mind at ease and your security deposit safe.
- Take Care of Drains to avoid plumbing issues: Your drain should be always operational so that water can flow freely. Of course, the more you clean and cook, the more difficult it is to keep your pipes free from blockages. The drains must be able to run freely. Pouring coffee grounds, oil, or substances down your kitchen sink drain is not a good idea. Hair should not be washed down the drain but should be removed from the tub or sink in your bathroom. Keep a plunger on hand to clear clogs from your toilet and sink. To avoid hiring a plumber for such a basic chore, you’ll need to come up with a few creative solutions. Unclog floor drains and bathroom sinks with common home items like vinegar and baking soda. Use eco-friendly materials to avoid causing damage to your pipes. Anything you use should be approved by your property manager or landlord, but it’s always a good idea to enquire.
- Clean your apartment: It’s crucial to keep the property clean in order to avoid complications that could jeopardise your safety. Simply put, make the place appear as if you own it. Splatters, spills, and other accidents are more likely now because so many people are at home so much of the time. If commercial cleaning materials are scarce in your area, try wiping down counters and spot-treating carpets using baking soda, dish soap, and vinegar. Maintain a consistent timetable for duties like sweeping the floor, putting clothing away, and wiping down counters. You’ll establish a habit that assures a cleaner environment in this manner.
- Lower your utility bill: Utilities can be a major pain for most tenants, but there are steps you can take to reduce monthly costs. For example, you can turn down your heating and wear heavy clothing when the weather is cold, make sure the taps are tightened to avoid wasting water, and, most importantly, turn off the lights and never leave the TV on when you aren’t in the room.
- Keep all appliances clean: It is critical to keep your apartment’s appliances, such as the refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, cooker, and other equipment, in good working order.
- Keep Heating dust free: Always inspect vents on a regular basis to ensure no dust has accumulated.
- Understand when to call for help: It’s sometimes wise to leave the work to the professionals. Report broken appliances, water that won’t turn off, and blockages that won’t go away after plunging. In the bathroom, note any cracked or missing grout. Grout has a practical purpose as well as a cosmetic one: it prevents water from leaking into walls and floors.
Remember to always take care of your apartment.