One of the biggest benefits of renting instead of owning a home is that you usually don’t have to worry about stressful and costly maintenance tasks, such as replacing a roof or hot water heater.
While most rental agreements include a landlord who takes care of major maintenance worries, there are a few things you can do as a renter to keep service calls to a minimum and protect your security deposit in the long run.
If you have a manual freezer, defrost it at least once a year or when more than a quarter inch of frost has formed. When defrosting, remember to warm it up slowly. Empty the contents of the freezer, place towels underneath and let the ice melt at room temperature (use a blow dryer if you’re pressed for time). Once the ice is melted, wipe your freezer clean, bring it back to the appropriate temperature and restock.
In the bathroom, gaps and chips in your shower grout are worth calling your landlord about, because they could lead to significant water damage. However, a regular cleaning routine can ensure you do your part to ward off unhealthy mold and mildew. A good scrub made up of baking soda, vinegar and a little warm water should do the trick.
Also in the bathroom, remove hair from drains immediately rather than washing them down.
In the kitchen, it is fairly common knowledge to avoid pouring oil and grease down the sink, but also keep in mind that other solids — like coffee grounds — can also clog up pipes. If you have a sink with a garbage disposal, avoid dumping chemicals in the drain to clean it.
If heating and air conditioning units are easily accessible, vacuum the vents before using them for the first time each year, or ask your landlord to do so. Regular cleaning and filter changes ensure proper air flow. To avoid potential maintenance i ssues and fire hazards, check that furniture and curtains don’t cover vents.
Taking care of small tasks around your home or apartment can mean more comfortable day-to-day living and fewer visits from the landlord.
But even the most conscientious renter can be unlucky. That’s where renters insurance can help. Starting at around $10 a month, renters insurance will not only cover your belongings, but also cover temporary living expenses and personal liability if you have to relocate during major repairs.
Some insurers, like Erie Insurance, offer a multi-policy discount for those who want to purchase both renters insurance and an auto policy. In some cases, the discount may actually pay for the renter’s policy. — statepoint media