How to Be a Rockstar Renter

When it comes to your apartment home, a little regular upkeep goes a long way. 

Good habits keep your space comfortable and healthy, protect your security deposit, and keep your relationship with your property team running smoothly.

Here's your cheat sheet to caring for your apartment like a true pro.

1. Master the Basics: A Simple Cleaning Rhythm

You don't need a color-coded chore chart to stay on top of things (though if that's your vibe, go for it). A simple rhythm works wonders:

• Daily: Wipe down kitchen counters, do dishes, take out trash
• Weekly: Vacuum or sweep floors, clean bathroom surfaces, wipe down appliances
• Monthly: Dust ceiling fans/vents, clean inside the microwave/fridge, wipe baseboards
• Seasonally: Wash windows and declutter closets. 

Little and often beats a marathon cleaning session.

2. Report Maintenance Issues Early

That small drip under the sink or the flickering light in the hallway closet? Report it now, not later. Small issues left unaddressed can turn into bigger problems. Submitting a maintenance request as soon as you notice something isn't a hassle for your property team; it's exactly what they want you to do.

Pro tip: Take a photo or short video when you submit a request. It helps the maintenance team diagnose the issue before they even walk in the door.

3. Keep an Eye on Moisture

Bathrooms and kitchens are prime spots for excess moisture and mildew buildup. A few habits to keep things dry and healthy:

• Run the exhaust fan during and after showers.
• Keep an eye on areas around windows, especially in humid months.
• Report any musty smells or discoloration right away.

4. Don't Skip the Smoke and CO Detectors

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and ask the maintenance team to replace batteries as needed (unless your community uses hardwired or sealed 10-year units). This is one of the simplest things you can do to keep yourself and your home safe. 

5. Treat Your Appliances Right

• Clean the lint trap after every dryer load, and periodically check the vent for buildup.
• Run a dishwasher cleaning cycle or use a cleaning tablet monthly.
• Avoid overloading the garbage disposal, and never put grease down the drain.
• Wipe down stovetops and oven interiors regularly so buildup doesn't turn into a bigger cleaning job later.

6. Protect Your Floors and Walls

Small habits here can save you money at move-out:

• Use furniture pads under chair and table legs.
• Place a mat at entryways to cut down on tracked-in dirt.
• Use removable, damage-free hanging strips instead of nails when possible. (Double-check your lease for wall-hanging policies).
• Address spills on carpet immediately. The longer they sit, the harder they are to lift.

7. Know What's Yours to Handle (and What Isn't)

Part of being a great renter is understanding the line between routine tenant upkeep and issues that fall under your property's maintenance responsibilities, like plumbing, HVAC systems, or appliance repairs. When in doubt, ask your leasing office. They'd rather answer a quick question than have you attempt a DIY fix that voids a warranty or causes damage.

9. Give Your Home a Seasonal Refresh

As seasons change, so should your maintenance checklist:

• Spring: Deep clean, inspect for pests.
• Summer: Keep vents unblocked for efficient cooling.
• Fall: Prepare for cooler weather.
• Winter: Know your community's policy on preventing frozen pipes. Also, keep walkways near your entry clear if that's part of your responsibility.

10. Communicate Like a Pro

Great renters aren't the ones who never have issues. They're the ones who communicate clearly and promptly when something comes up. Respond to your property team's notices, keep your contact information updated, and don't hesitate to ask questions about anything from maintenance timelines to community policies.

The bottom line: Being a rockstar renter isn't about perfection. It's about consistency, communication, and taking small, proactive steps to care for your space. 

Your apartment will stay in better shape, your move-out process will be smoother, and your property team will genuinely appreciate having you as a resident.

Have questions about maintenance requests or community policies? Reach out to your leasing office! They're your best resource for keeping your home running smoothly.