When To Call Maintenance In Your Indianapolis Apartment
Of Course, big concerns, like roof leaks and heating, need to be reported, but what about the smaller stuff? Is there a need to call in lighting outages or carpet damage? Is it smart to try and fix items yourself?
Call Maintenance For Your Indianapolis Apartment When These Issues Arise
When you discover a significant issue – especially one that's structural -- it's commonly covered per your rental agreement. The following are common issues a renter might encounter:
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Water damage and leaks: If you see water entering from the roof or you have a malfunctioning toilet or fridge that may cause water damage, notify maintenance without hesitation.
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Furnace and AC problems: If your AC no longer cools, or your heat won't turn on, it’s time to make the call. Even if it's pleasant outside, your AC and furnace should be operational.
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Faulty plumbing: If you have a clogged toilet, your first step is to use a plunger. If your efforts fail, contact maintenance. Also, open a ticket for dripping sinks or shower fixtures.
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Bugs: In many cases, pests get in by hitching a ride on your clothing or your pet. But if you have issues with any persistent pests -- like roaches, wasps, ants, or rodents – it's the perfect time for your maintenance staff to send out a pest control expert.
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Appliance malfunctions: If your fridge no longer cools or your oven burner refuses to work, you should contact maintenance. Major appliances that were there when you moved in should be covered, but smaller appliances you brought in – a microwave, toaster oven, mini fridge – is up to you to repair or replace.
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Window and door dilemmas: Your front and patio doors must lock and close appropriately. If damage or swelling keeps them from closing easily, they need to be replaced for safety reasons. Windows should also open, close, and lock as expected.
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Drywall, flooring, and other issues: If you find damage to a wall or a potentially dangerous flooring concern, reach out to maintenance. Fraying or torn carpet may need to be replaced, particularly if a tack is exposed.
What Should You Fix Yourself?
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Replacing Light bulbs: When light bulbs are burned out, they can be replaced whenever you are able. But keep in mind, if your lighting installation appears to burn through light bulbs, you should reach out to the service team to see if you have an issue with your electricity. Be sure to ask if maintenance supplies light bulbs in the event they need to be changed as specific types are sometimes used.
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Clogged pipes and toilets: When your toilet won’t flush, your first step is a plunger. It’s also smart to have some drain cleaner to clear the stoppage from the pipe. If you need a drain snake, touch base with maintenance to stay away from damaging the pipes.
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Air filters: Unless specified in your contract, you're in charge of replacing the HVAC air filter. A dirty filter will restrict airflow and negatively impact your HVAC performance. If the filter is opaque, it's time for a new one. Your maintenance team may supply and replace filters for you, so make sure you find out.
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Regular Cleaning: Sad to say, cleaning your Indianapolis apartment is up to you. Keep in mind you should clean your inside and outside patio areas.