Do you know when to try DIY fixes and when to call a professional repair person? You’re on the right track. We’re exploring how to know if your rental property needs an electrician.
Electricity is one of the vital utilities a rental home needs to remain habitable. However, it’s always best to exercise caution regarding wires and circuits. You can hire a local property manager to manage repairs and emergency maintenance. This article also explores common electrical problems in the home and landlord and tenant responsibilities.
Common Electrical Problems
Electrical Surges
Electrical surges refer to fluctuations in the lighting. Faulty wiring, damaged power lines, and appliance overload are common causes. Frequent surges can damage crucial electrical components. Thus, it’s essential to stay safe by identifying the culprit early and making necessary fixes.
Faulty Switches
Another common electrical problem is when your switches are faulty. This scenario can be a burnt-out bulb, dips in power, or poor installations. You may consult with an expert to determine if you need to replace the switches and fixtures or rewire the outlet.
Circuit Breaker Trips
Circuit breakers are an essential component of your home’s electrical system. Their primary function is to protect the wiring by turning off the light when there’s a problem. Thus, you might notice the power goes out when you turn on too many high-wattage devices. However, it could indicate a more significant problem when your circuit trips frequently.
Electrical Shocks
Getting electrocuted is never a fun experience, but mild shocks are common. Typically, these unpleasant experiences are from faulty wiring with an appliance or moisture in the wall. If you’re experiencing such issues, it’s best to call an expert.
High Electricity Bill
Irrespective of who is paying the bills, a high electricity bill can be a nuisance. It indicates that the occupants need to cut back on electrical consumption for the most part. Adopting energy-efficient habits and switching to eco-friendly appliances can help. However, if you feel the bill isn’t adding up, one of your devices might be the culprit. A leaking water heater or faulty refrigerator could be drawing excess power.
Landlords and Tenants’ Responsibility for Maintenance
Landlords
Maintaining Electrical Soundness
The landlord is responsible for maintaining the property’s electrical soundness. In other words, they have to ensure that the wiring system is efficient. That includes performing the annual check, keeping safety codes, and renewing performance certificates when necessary.
Performing Safety Checks
Another duty landlords have is to perform regular safety checks. Occasionally, it would be best to examine the sockets, detectors, and main service panel for problems.
Resolving Complaints
Landlords should also promptly tend to tenant complaints about electrical problems. Since such issues can result in severe injury or death, it’s always best to address them swiftly.
Tenants
Maintaining General Conditions
Tenants are responsible for maintaining the general condition of the property. That includes avoiding misuse of appliances and adhering to basic safety rules.
Performing Minor Repairs
Tenants can also help out with minor repairs on the property. Tasks such as replacing light bulbs and batteries and resetting the circuit switch shouldn’t be left solely to the landlord.
Making Repairs due to misuse
Renters should fix or cover the cost of any damage resulting from tenant misuse or neglect. It would be best for both parties to agree on a qualified contractor that can assess and fix the issue.
When to Call a Licensed Electrician
You’re Experiencing a Blackout
If your circuit breaks or fuse blows, it could leave your house in the dark. Blackout might be due to storms, surges, or an overload. In such a scenario, it’s always better to call a licensed electrician. These professionals can investigate, find and resolve the issue promptly.
Your Outlets are Warm to Touch
Warm outlets are a dangerous sign that something might be wrong with your switchplate or terminals. You might find that touching such switches give a mild shock or that the edges are blackening. To avoid starting a fire or getting electrocuted, call an expert.
Your House is Old
As houses age, many of their systems begin to deteriorate. If your rental property is older than 25 years, you might notice rust or moisture around the service panel. Such systems are more hazardous than newer models and require extra caution. Whether there’s an issue or performing a routine inspection, it’s always best to call in a pro for your safety.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap. We hope this article on how to know if your rental property needs an electrician was helpful. Navigating electrical issues can be tricky because of the dangers involved. While fixing some problems might be as simple as changing a bulb or unplugging a few devices, critical issues can be fatal. Thus, it would help to call in an expert when you’re experiencing a blackout, your outlets are warm, or you’d rather go with a safer option.
