5 Maintenance Issues That Cost Landlords More When Ignored

As a property manager, I’ve seen it countless times: a small maintenance issue gets put off and what could have been a $200 fix turns into a $2,000 problem. Here are the five issues you should never ignore in your rental property.

 

1.  Minor Roof Leaks

That small water stain on the ceiling might seem harmless but water damage doesn’t stay small for long. In our suburban climate, one season of rain can turn a minor leak into:

• Damaged ceiling plaster and insulation
• Mould growth (which tenants can claim affects their health)
• Potential electrical hazards if water reaches wiring

What it costs now: $300 – 600 for a roof repair

What it costs later: $3,000+ for ceiling replacement, mould remediation and possible tenant relocation

 

2.  Blocked or Overflowing Gutters

Gutters might not seem critical but they protect your property’s foundation. Blocked gutters cause water to overflow and pool around the foundation which can lead to:

• Cracking in walls and foundations
• Water entering the property through windows or doors
• Damage to landscaping and driveways

What it costs now: $200 – 300 for cleaning and minor repairs

What it costs later: $5,000+ for foundation repairs or structural work

 

3.  Dripping Taps and Running Toilets

A dripping tap wastes around 20,000 litres of water per year. A running toilet? Even more. Beyond the environmental impact, you’re looking at:

• Inflated water bills (which you may be responsible for)
• Potential water damage to vanities and flooring
• Tenant frustration and complaints

What it costs now: $120 – 200 for a plumber to replace washers or cistern parts

What it costs later: $500+ in excess water bills, plus potential flooring damage

 

4.  Faulty Smoke Alarms

This one’s non-negotiable. In Western Australia, working smoke alarms are a legal requirement. If something happens and the alarms aren’t functioning:

• You could face significant fines
• Your insurance may not cover claims
• Most importantly, lives could be at risk

What it costs now: $120 -150 per alarm replacement

What it costs later: Uninsurable losses, legal consequences and potential tragedy

 

5.  Cracked or Damaged Window Seals

When window seals fail, you’ll notice condensation between panes or drafts coming through. This affects:

• Energy efficiency (higher power bills for tenants, who may complain)
• Potential for mould growth from condensation
• Security if locks or frames are compromised

What it costs now: $300 – 800 per window

What it costs later: $1,500+ for full window replacement, plus tenant complaints about comfort

 

The Bottom Line

• Preventative maintenance isn’t just about avoiding big It’s about:
• Keeping good tenants happy (they’re more likely to renew)
• Maintaining your property’s value
• Avoiding periods of vacancy while major repairs are done
• Meeting your legal obligations as a landlord

We recommend scheduling a professional property inspection every 3 – 6 months. Small issues get flagged early and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your investment is protected.

 

Need help managing your rental property? Our property management service includes regular inspections, quick response to maintenance issues and a network of trusted tradespeople who can fix problems before they escalate. Get in touch to find out how we can protect your investment.

 

Information provided on this website is general in nature and based on Western Australian legislation and market conditions current at the time of publication. Real estate markets, regulations and costs change over time. Readers should verify current information and seek professional advice specific to their circumstances. Maximus Real Estate does not provide legal, financial or investment advice.

 

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