Townhomes offer the benefits of community living without long-term commitment or exclusive property owner responsibilities. You can find two- or three-bedroom townhomes for rent in pristine locations and thriving neighborhoods. The homes are often managed and maintained by on-site teams employed by the homeowners’ association. Here are a few things to know about maintenance responsibilities in townhome communities:
HOA Responsibilities
Townhome maintenance is usually shared between the homeowner and the homeowners’ association. HOAs are responsible for exterior maintenance, community amenities, and exterior painting and repairs. Key maintenance tasks include:
- Scheduling inspections
- Repairing roofs and siding
- Addressing cracks or other issues in exterior walls
- Painting exterior walls to maintain a fresh curb appeal
- Maintaining community amenities, such as dog runs, pavilions, and grills
- Preparing units for new renters by cleaning thoroughly and repairing walls
Other HOA responsibilities in modern townhomes for rent include maintaining lawns, gardens, sidewalks, and shared outdoor spaces. During the winter, an HOA schedules snow removal from shared roads and sidewalks. Associations also enforce community rules and regulations to maintain safe, clean spaces.
HOAs typically notify residents of maintenance schedules in advance to help them prepare. This gives you time to repark your vehicle or move outdoor decorations before painting begins. Some homeowners’ associations also schedule annual and seasonal services for specific interior fixtures, such as HVAC systems and built-in appliances.
Renter Responsibilities
Although the HOA handles the bulk of maintenance responsibilities, some areas fall on you as the renter. Townhome management teams often require you to maintain and upkeep the home’s interior and private outdoor spaces. Interior maintenance includes addressing issues with most fixtures and amenities within the walls of your unit. This includes plumbing issues, such as backflowing toilets or clogged drains. You’re also responsible for maintaining electrical systems and appliances like dishwashers and ovens. Private outdoor spaces include patios, balconies, and small yards. Some HOAs may expect you to repair or replace fixtures that break or need maintenance during your occupation of the space.
You should also inspect interior units regularly and schedule timely proactive repairs and maintenance services. Review the lease agreement to determine how to approach maintenance tasks. Depending on the lease, you may be financially responsible for repairs or only required to notify the on-site maintenance staff promptly. Leading HOAs have a user-friendly community portal for requesting repairs and maintenance services. Follow the HOA’s guidelines to avoid inconveniences and contentions.
Shared Responsibilities
Each townhome community has unique policies regarding maintenance, so be sure to review the entire contract thoroughly before committing. The governing documents are the most reliable source for maintenance responsibilities. Determine the type of upkeep that falls on the HOA and the homeowner. If the lease agreement doesn’t clarify specific maintenance responsibilities, ask the HOA. Tasks, such as window maintenance and structural repairs, may be unclear because they occupy the interior and exterior of the unit.
Fixing a bowing basement wall is likely the responsibility of the HOA because it’s caused by hydrostatic pressure, whereas chipped basement walls may fall under the homeowner’s responsibility. Ambiguous tasks like this often require clarification. HOAs usually recommend regular inspections and may schedule special assessments for major repairs.
Proactive maintenance identifies issues before they escalate. Notify management about problems you identify early because negligence may make you liable for extensive damage caused by delayed repairs and maintenance. You should also clean and protect your unit against pest infestation and mold growth. Sometimes maintenance responsibilities are split between renters, especially if they share walls or roofs.
Find Townhomes for Rent Today
Townhome living gives you access to a secure, close-knit community without sacrificing urban conveniences and amenities. You also get reduced maintenance responsibilities because the property belongs to the landlord. Before renting the unit, take a virtual tour and visit the home for a comprehensive visual assessment. Contact a property management company today to find out more about townhomes for rent.
