Are you planning to move to and rent in Tulsa? If so, you've made a wise choice.
Niche.com gave Tulsa a high livability score of A- and says it's one of Oklahoma's best places to live. It boasts an excellent commute system, numerous parks, top-rated schools, and impressive ethnic and economic diversity. Plus, rent is affordable: its median is $998 vs. the national median of $1,348!
Once you become a new Tulsa renter, remember that you, like your landlord, will also be responsible for property maintenance.
The At Home Rental Management team will give you the details on legal property maintenance duties and optional tenant responsibilities in Tulsa, so read on.
Your Legal Property Maintenance Responsibilities
As a tenant in Tulsa, you have legal responsibilities defined by the Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act:
- Basic Care of Property: Keep the property clean and habitable, dispose of trash properly, and keep common areas neat
- Make Minor Repairs: For example, replacing a burnt-out light bulb
- Notify the Landlord: If something significant breaks (like plumbing or roof issues), inform the landlord promptly to avoid further damage
- Respect the Property: Never intentionally destroy or deface the property or allow anyone else to do so
In addition to the above, your landlord may specify other requirements regarding the property's upkeep in the lease agreement. They must put all these into writing and explain everything clearly before both parties sign the contract.
Also, remember that you have the right to inspect the property before agreeing to rent it. And you should!
Inspecting the rental allows you to confirm that it's in top condition. If you find any issues, document them and inform the landlord.
Possible and Optional Property Upkeep Chores
The Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 118 allows landlords and tenants to agree on repairs and upkeep duties independent of the rental agreement. For example, your landlord may ask you to perform optional maintenance tasks, such as:
- Landscaping: Taking care of the yard or garden to beautify the living space
- Cleaning Carpets: Regularly vacuuming carpets or floors to prolong their lifespan and prevent additional charges when you move out
- Replacing HVAC Filters: Help keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in good condition
To encourage you to agree to those optional responsibilities, your landlord may offer an incentive, such as a small discount or gift card. You don't have to agree, but remember, these chores are for your benefit, too, so you might as well say yes and enjoy the incentive.
Besides, by doing your part in maintaining the rental, you are more likely to get a full refund of your security deposit.
Ready to Find Your Dream Apartment in Tulsa?
Now that you know more about tenants' legal and optional property maintenance duties in Tulsa, OK, the next step is finding your dream rental and ideal landlord.
The experts at At Home Rental Management, our full-service Tulsa property management firm, will be happy to help you have a positive rental experience. We have highly experienced and friendly property managers, Jeanne Anson and Monica Bell, who have been helping landlords and tenants for over two decades.
Speak with us today so we can start helping you find your next home in Tulsa, Oklahoma!
