Renting a home offers flexibility, comfort, and the convenience of not having to deal with property ownership responsibilities — or so we think. But what happens when the roof leaks, the aircon breaks down, or a pipe bursts?

The common question most Filipino renters ask is: “Who should pay for the maintenance of a rented home — the tenant or the landlord?”

Understanding this is crucial for both tenants and property owners to avoid misunderstandings and financial disputes. This blog breaks down the roles and responsibilities of both sides according to typical rental agreements in the Philippines, so you’ll know what to do when maintenance issues arise.

1. Why Maintenance Responsibilities Should Be Clear

A clear maintenance agreement benefits everyone. It ensures the home remains safe, habitable, and in good condition while protecting both parties’ interests.

For tenants, it prevents unfair deductions from the security deposit. For landlords, it ensures that the property is cared for properly.

In the Philippines, maintenance obligations are often guided by the Civil Code, and most rental agreements mirror these rules. But beyond the legal side, open communication between both parties is key.

2. The Landlord’s Responsibility: Major Repairs and Structural Issues

Generally, landlords (or property owners) are responsible for major repairs and structural maintenance. These include damages or issues that affect the safety, livability, and integrity of the property.

Examples of Landlord Responsibilities:

Fixing roof leaks or ceiling damage

Repainting exterior walls or fixing structural cracks

Repairing electrical wiring or plumbing systems

Replacing broken doors or windows (due to wear and tear)

Servicing or replacing major fixtures provided with the rental (like air conditioning or water heaters)

If these issues occur not because of the tenant’s misuse, the landlord should cover the cost of repair.

Example situation:

If the ceiling suddenly starts leaking during a heavy rain, that’s likely a landlord responsibility, especially if the tenant didn’t cause the problem.

Landlords are also responsible for keeping the home habitable before and during occupancy — meaning it should be safe, clean, and functional when tenants move in.

3. The Tenant’s Responsibility: Minor Repairs and Proper Care

While landlords handle the big stuff, tenants are responsible for day-to-day maintenance and minor repairs. These include keeping the property clean and reporting any issues early.

Examples of Tenant Responsibilities:

Changing light bulbs and fuses

Cleaning drains and keeping toilets unclogged

Regular cleaning and pest control

Taking care of appliances and fixtures provided by the landlord

Avoiding actions that could damage the property (e.g., hammering too many nails into walls, leaving faucets running, etc.)

Tenants should also promptly inform the landlord of any damages. Ignoring a small leak, for instance, might lead to a bigger and more expensive repair — and if the landlord can prove negligence, the tenant could be held liable for the cost.

4. Gray Areas: Shared or Negotiated Responsibilities

Some maintenance cases are not always black and white. Depending on the lease agreement or mutual understanding, some repairs can be shared.

For instance:

Aircon servicing – The landlord may cover annual cleaning, while the tenant pays for minor filter cleaning.

Garden maintenance – Tenants might agree to handle daily upkeep, while the landlord pays for landscaping or trimming large trees.

Appliance breakdowns – If damage results from normal wear, the landlord pays. But if it’s due to misuse, the tenant shoulders the cost.

That’s why it’s essential for both parties to have a signed lease agreement that specifies these details clearly.

5. What Does the Law Say? (Philippine Civil Code Basics)

The Philippine Civil Code, particularly Articles 1654–1665, outlines the obligations of both the lessor (landlord) and lessee (tenant):

Landlord’s Legal Obligations:

Keep the property in condition for the agreed use.

Make necessary repairs (except minor ones caused by the tenant).

Ensure the tenant’s peaceful enjoyment of the property.

Tenant’s Legal Obligations:

Pay rent on time.

Use the property as agreed (residential, not commercial).

Take care of the property and make small repairs due to wear and tear.

Failure to follow these can give either party the right to terminate the lease early or seek compensation for damages.

6. How to Handle Maintenance Issues Effectively

a. Document Everything

When you move in, take photos or videos of the property’s condition. This protects both the tenant and landlord when determining the cause of future damage.

b. Communicate Promptly

Inform your landlord immediately if there’s damage. Don’t wait for small issues to worsen — it’s better for both sides.

c. Check Your Lease

Always review your lease before signing. Make sure it clearly outlines:

Who handles specific repairs

How long landlords have to fix problems

Whether tenants can deduct repair costs from rent (with prior notice)

d. Agree on a Repair Process

For example, tenants can notify the landlord within 24 hours of discovery, and the landlord must respond or schedule repairs within 3–5 days.

Having a clear system reduces misunderstandings and builds trust between both parties.

7. When Tenants Can Pay First and Deduct Later

There are cases when tenants can shoulder repair costs and deduct them from rent, but this should be done carefully. According to Article 1663 of the Civil Code, tenants may do this if:

The repair is urgent.

The landlord was notified but didn’t act within a reasonable time.

Example:

If your toilet is overflowing and the landlord can’t be reached for days, you can hire a plumber and deduct the reasonable cost — but keep receipts and documentation.

8. What About Maintenance During Move-Out?

When moving out, tenants should return the home in good, clean condition, aside from normal wear and tear.

Landlords often inspect the property and use the security deposit to cover unpaid utilities or damages caused by neglect or misuse.

If you’ve maintained the home properly and followed the agreement, your deposit should be returned in full.

9. The Bottom Line: Clear Communication = Happy Rental Relationship

A good rental relationship is built on mutual respect, fairness, and transparency. Landlords should take responsibility for major maintenance and ensure the home remains livable. Tenants, in return, should take care of the property and be proactive in reporting issues.

Both parties should communicate openly and document agreements in writing. This prevents unnecessary disputes and makes renting a stress-free experience.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, renting isn’t just a financial transaction — it’s a partnership.

A well-maintained rental home benefits everyone: landlords protect their investment, and tenants enjoy a comfortable living space.

So the next time something breaks or leaks, don’t panic. Check your lease, talk to your landlord, and work together to keep your home safe, functional, and pleasant to live in.