Landlord vs. Tenants: Who Pays for Repairs?

Cassie McClenaghan • November 25, 2025

Landlord vs. Tenants: Who Pays for Repairs?

It’s a common debate between landlords and tenants, but having a clear system in place will help things run more smoothly and eliminate stress, confusion, or conflict.

If you have owned a rental for a long time, you know repairs never happen at convenient times. They show up late at night, on weekends, or right when you think everything is running smoothly. These moments reveal how important it is to have a clear plan and a reliable team behind you. Repairs and maintenance are more than simple chores. They determine your tenant’s experience and your long-term returns. 


We’re here to explain how repair responsibilities work and how Patriot Property Management handles these issues for you.


Why repair rules matter. It’s normal for rentals experience normal wear and tear, unexpected breakdowns, and tenant-caused issues over time. The key is knowing who is responsible for each one. Most repairs fall on the owner. It is your home, your systems, and your long-term asset. If a tenant causes damage, they may be responsible, but the majority of maintenance comes back to the owner. Understanding this ahead of time prevents frustration when issues arise.


What we handle for you. While owners are responsible, you don’t have to handle the work. We coordinate everything. When a tenant calls at 3 a.m. about a broken air conditioner, our team answers the call and dispatches the appropriate vendor. 


We manage scheduling, communication, and follow-up so your property is protected even when you are asleep or out of town. Emergency issues, HVAC failures, electrical problems, and plumbing concerns are all handled through our maintenance line.


How our fees work. We keep the structure simple for long-term unfurnished rentals. There is a percentage-based monthly management fee and a flat leasing fee. There are no hidden fees and no surprise charges. You always know what to expect. Our years of experience in real estate and property management enable us to operate with a fair, clear, and consistent structure.

“When a tenant calls at 3 a.m. about a broken air conditioner, our team answers the call and dispatches the appropriate vendor.

Why our vendor pool matters. One of our biggest strengths is the quality of our vendors. We work with people we know, like, and trust. We may not send the cheapest contractor in town, but we always send the best fit for the job. Every vendor is vetted and insured. You do not have to worry about who enters your property or whether the work will be done correctly. The right team protects your asset and keeps your tenants satisfied.


No financial interest in vendors. Many property management companies earn money from their vendor relationships. We do not. We make zero profit from any vendor who works on your property. The contractor is independent and paid directly for the work they complete. This means you get transparent pricing and recommendations that are based on what your property needs, not what benefits the management company.


If you are unsure how repairs should be handled or want a team that is available around the clock, Patriot Property Management can help. We will walk you through the process, clearly explain responsibilities, and show you how our systems protect your investment. For questions or to see if partnering with us makes sense, call 602-581-3658, email info@patpm.com, or visit https://www.patpm.com


Choosing the right team makes managing repairs simple, predictable, and stress-free, and Patriot is here to make sure your rental stays protected year-round.

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