Moving in and out
I damaged something in my apartment. Should I tell my landlord?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Yes, tell them soon and in writing. Damage like a cracked tile or a leak you caused gets worse and costs more when it stays hidden until move-out. The landlord will usually arrange the repair and bill you or take it from your deposit, which is often cheaper than a surprise deduction later.
Some landlords let you arrange the repair yourself with a licensed contractor, while others require their own maintenance staff. Don't start a DIY repair on plumbing, electrical or anything structural without permission, because a bad repair can cost more than the original damage.
Ask for the cost in writing before the work is done, and for an invoice afterward. You generally should only have to pay the reasonable cost of the repair, not an upgrade.
Check your renters insurance. Liability coverage may pay for accidental damage to someone else's property, such as a neighbor's unit after your bathtub overflows, and some policies cover certain damage to the building from events like fire. Ordinary breakage of the landlord's fixtures often isn't covered, so read your policy or call the insurer.
Keep a record of the repair and payment so it isn't charged a second time when your deposit is settled.
Want the whole picture? Read Renting Your First Apartment: Applications, Leases and Move-in Costs.