Living in a rental property means relying on your landlord to maintain a safe and comfortable home. Some problems may seem minor at first but can quickly turn into serious hazards or costly repairs if ignored. Knowing which issues require immediate attention helps protect your well-being and prevents damage to the property. This guide highlights the top 10 urgent problems you should report to your landlord right away.

Water Leaks and Flooding

Water leaks can cause extensive damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. They also promote mold growth, which poses health risks. If you notice dripping pipes, wet spots on walls, or puddles inside your home, contact your landlord immediately. Even small leaks can worsen quickly and lead to structural damage or electrical hazards.

Common signs to watch for include:

• Discolored or bubbling paint on walls or ceilings

• Musty odors indicating mold

• Dripping sounds or visible water pooling

  
  

Prompt repairs prevent costly restoration and keep your living space safe.

Electrical Problems

Faulty wiring, frequent power outages, or sparks from outlets are serious dangers. Electrical issues can cause fires or shocks. If you experience flickering lights, burning smells near outlets, or breakers tripping repeatedly, report these problems without delay.

Examples of urgent electrical concerns:

• Exposed wires or damaged cords

• Outlets that feel warm or emit sparks

• Circuit breakers that trip when using appliances

  
  

Your landlord should arrange for a licensed electrician to inspect and fix the problem.

Heating and Cooling Failures

Extreme temperatures affect your comfort and health. If your heating system stops working in winter or the air conditioning fails during hot months, notify your landlord immediately. Prolonged exposure to cold or heat can cause illness, especially for children, elderly, or those with medical conditions.

Signs to report:

• No heat or cool air from vents

• Strange noises or smells from HVAC units

• Thermostat malfunctions

  
  

Timely repairs ensure your home stays livable year-round.

Pest Infestations

Rodents, cockroaches, bedbugs, or other pests threaten hygiene and can damage property. If you see droppings, nests, or live pests, alert your landlord quickly. Ignoring infestations allows them to spread and become harder to eliminate.

Common pest indicators:

• Chewed wires or holes in walls

• Unexplained bites or skin irritation

• Foul odors or grease marks

  
  

Landlords are responsible for pest control in most rental agreements.

Broken Locks and Security Issues

Your safety depends on secure doors and windows. Broken locks, damaged doors, or malfunctioning security systems must be fixed immediately. If you feel unsafe or notice signs of forced entry, contact your landlord right away.

Security problems to report:

• Locks that don’t latch or turn properly

• Windows that won’t close or lock

• Missing or broken exterior lighting

  
  

Prompt action helps prevent break-ins and protects your belongings.

Plumbing Blockages and Toilet Problems

Clogged drains, backed-up toilets, or leaking faucets disrupt daily life and can cause water damage. If water drains slowly, toilets overflow, or you hear gurgling sounds, notify your landlord. Plumbing issues often worsen quickly and may lead to unsanitary conditions.

Urgent plumbing signs:

• Water pooling around sinks or toilets

• Foul odors from drains

• Sudden loss of water pressure

  
  

Early repairs avoid costly pipe damage and maintain hygiene.

Structural Damage

Cracks in walls, sagging ceilings, or loose floorboards indicate potential structural problems. These issues threaten your safety and the building’s integrity. Report any visible damage to your landlord immediately.

Examples of structural concerns:

• Large or growing cracks in walls or foundation

• Doors and windows that stick or won’t close

• Uneven floors or ceilings

  
  

Ignoring these signs can lead to dangerous collapses or expensive repairs.

Gas Leaks and Carbon Monoxide

Gas leaks and carbon monoxide exposure are life-threatening emergencies. If you smell gas, hear a hissing sound near gas appliances, or experience symptoms like headaches or dizziness, leave the property immediately and call emergency services. Then inform your landlord.

Safety tips:

• Never ignore the smell of gas (rotten eggs)

• Install carbon monoxide detectors if not provided

• Report any malfunctioning gas appliances

  
  

Landlords must ensure gas systems are safe and well-maintained.

Broken Appliances Provided by Landlord

If your rental includes appliances like refrigerators, stoves, or water heaters, broken units affect your comfort and daily routine. Report malfunctioning appliances promptly so your landlord can repair or replace them.

Common appliance issues:

• Refrigerator not cooling

• Oven or stove not heating

• Water heater not producing hot water

  
  

Timely fixes prevent food spoilage and maintain essential services.

Mold Growth

Mold causes respiratory problems and damages surfaces. If you spot black, green, or white patches on walls, ceilings, or around windows, report it immediately. Mold often results from leaks or poor ventilation and requires professional removal.

Signs of mold:

• Visible discoloration or fuzzy patches

• Musty or damp smells

• Increased allergy or asthma symptoms

  
  

Landlords must address mold to keep the home healthy.

Reporting these issues quickly helps maintain a safe, comfortable living environment and protects your rights as a tenant. Keep a record of your communications and follow up if repairs are delayed. Your landlord has a legal responsibility to fix urgent problems promptly.