Spring is a time to throw open the shutters, break out the broom, and give your home a thorough cleaning. It’s also a time to repair and shore up any small problems you’ve noticed around the house this winter.
But, if you don’t own your home, what’s your responsibility to clean up? If you rent, the property still belongs to your landlord. Renters might not have to bear the burden of more extensive cleaning and repair work. However, they might still have a responsibility for upkeep. Take the time to do your part to keep the home clean and safe. If you do, the fewer problems you might have when filing a renters insurance claim.
To Understand Responsibility, Review Your Lease
When renting a property, you don’t have free reign to do whatever you want with it. Your upkeep responsibility is usually outlined in the terms of your lease. The lease is legally-binding, so that means you have to abide by it.
Should renters neglect the property, this could violate their lease. For example, renters who damage the home or neglect cleanliness might leave a big mess behind. This is something the owner doesn't want to have to clean up.
Therefore, landlords often enforce cleanliness requirements in leases. These clauses might obligate renters to keep the home in good shape. If they don't follow the lease, renters might face eviction or fees by the landlord.
Not only might leases list a renter’s upkeep responsibility, it might also outline the landlord’s. In many leases, landlords assume responsibility for items belonging to them. This might include the home’s structure, and included furnishings and appliances. Therefore, property damage or breakdowns might be up to the owner to repair. When damage occurs, the renter should contact the landlord to figure out how to manage the issue.
When Spring Cleaning Arrives
Renters and owners should review each spring cleaning task they plan to undertake. Often, standard cleaning and small maintenance might fall to the renter. Large maintenance, like structural repairs or inspections, often falls on the owner. Every task is different. Each will likely need coordination between renter and owner. Neither party should make any changes to the property that puts the other’s possessions at risk of damage or loss.
Should your possessions sustain damage while spring cleaning, your renters insurance might provide coverage. Pull out your policy and call your insurance agent. They can help you determine if the incident or damage in question qualifies for claim.