If you are a tenant in Greenville, SC, understanding the difference between your legal and optional tenant maintenance responsibilities is crucial. This will ensure you meet your property maintenance obligations and maintain good relationships with your landlord.
The South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act outlines all the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in the state. It covers key areas and is designed to create a fair system that safeguards the interests of both landlords and tenants, addressing:
- Lease agreements
- Maintenance obligations
- How disputes are resolved
If you have wondered about maintenance responsibilities and landlord-tenant laws, we have you covered. Keep reading for excellent property management tips and advice on navigating your tenant repair duties.
Legal Tenant Maintenance Responsibilities
Tenant legal obligations are duties tenants must perform to comply with the lease agreement and state laws. These responsibilities typically include the following:
Keeping the Property Clean and Sanitary
Tenants are legally required to keep their rented space clean and free of hazards. This includes regular:
- Cleaning
- Disposing of trash properly
- Preventing infestations
Preventing Damage
Tenants must avoid actions that could damage the property. Adhering to this means:
- Using appliances and fixtures correctly
- Reporting any potential issues to the landlord promptly
- Avoiding any changes to the property without permission
Reporting Necessary Repairs
Tenants must report any necessary repairs to the landlord. Failing to do so can result in further damage, which could become the tenant's responsibility.
Adhering to Apartment Maintenance Rules
Lease agreements outline details for maintaining the property throughout the rental period. Tenants must adhere to any additional property maintenance rules outlined in the lease, such as:
- Guidelines for waste disposal
- Noise levels
- Shared space cleanliness in multi-unit buildings
Optional Tenant Maintenance Responsibilities
Optional maintenance tasks are those that tenants can choose to take on but are not legally required to do. Taking on these tasks can add to the following:
- A positive landlord-tenant relationship
- A pleasant living space
- Possible lease extensions
Tenants might choose to do DIY tenant maintenance, such as fixing a leaky faucet or a clogged toilet, tightening loose cabinet handles, or replacing a broken light switch cover.
Landlords are typically responsible for yard maintenance. But, tenants might do extra landscaping to improve the outdoor space. Examples of this include:
- Planting and watering plants and shrubs
- Mowing the lawn to keep the property neat
- Weeding flowerbeds and walkways for improved curb appeal
- Shoveling snow in the winter
- Cleaning gutters
Understanding Property Maintenance Responsibilities
Property maintenance is vital to maintaining successful rental agreements. Before signing a lease, it's important to understand your legal and optional tenant responsibilities. Being informed ensures you follow the lease terms and maintain a good relationship with your landlord.
Whether you're searching for a new home or need rental advice, PMI Southern States is here to help. With over 20 years of experience in property management, our team uses cutting-edge technology to let property owners track their investments while giving tenants real-time access to maintenance requests and billing. Contact us today to discuss your needs.
