Look for water.
Check under sinks and around toilets for drips, dampness, stains, or a new musty smell. Tell the owner or manager about leaks promptly. EPA recommends fixing leaks and drying wet areas quickly.
Train Scout ProLocal connections across AmericaFree homeowner and renter guide
Small checks. Fewer surprises.
Simple ways to notice common home problems early. Follow the equipment instructions and your lease, and ask a qualified professional when a repair is needed.
Open your free home-care toolbox See the quick checksKeep your household prepared
Free fire-safety tips
Smoke alarms, escape plans, cooking, heating and carbon monoxide: practical guidance for homeowners and renters.
Read the fire-safety guideA simple place to start
A few useful checks.
These small habits can help you spot a concern early. You do not need special tools.
Check safety alarms.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms according to their instructions. If an alarm is missing, damaged, or will not test, do not disable it—contact the property owner or manager.
Keep heating and cooling clear.
Follow the system and lease instructions for accessible filters and vents. Ask the owner or manager who handles filter changes and scheduled equipment service.
Who should do what?
Homeowners and renters have different roles.
When you are unsure, check your lease or ask the property owner or manager before doing maintenance.
For homeowners
- After storms, look at the roof, siding, and gutters from the ground. Do not climb onto a roof or use an unstable ladder.
- Follow the equipment maker’s filter and service instructions; use a qualified professional for system service or repairs.
- Notice water stains, leaks, loose exterior items, or changes in heating and cooling, and arrange a repair before the problem grows.
- Know where the main water shutoff is and how to contact your utility or a local professional.
For renters
- Report drips, stains, dampness, musty smells, or heating problems to your owner or manager as soon as you notice them.
- Use your normal maintenance request process and include a photo when it is safe and useful.
- Ask which routine tasks are yours. Follow the lease and manager’s instructions for filters, alarms, and equipment.
- Do not climb onto the roof, open electrical equipment, or attempt repairs unless the owner has specifically arranged qualified help.
Before rough weather
- Check the forecast and official alerts at weather.gov.
- When it is safe, bring in loose porch or yard items before strong wind arrives.
- If you already see damage or a leak, you can choose to request repair help. There is no pressure to hire.
For fire, gas, carbon monoxide, sparking, or immediate danger, leave the area and call 911. For urgent rental repairs, contact the owner or manager directly.
More information
Trusted maintenance sources.
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Tell us what is happening. We’ll help look for a local contractor when one is available, and you decide what to do next.