Wall cracks can be a real pain in rental homes, and they’re sometimes more than just ugly marks. It’s super important to sort them out quickly, as they might mean there’s a bigger problem with the building that could affect safety and even lower the property’s value.
Some cracks are small and easy to fix, but others need you to act fast or get a pro involved.
This guide’s here to help you, as a tenant, handle these cracks smartly and know when it’s time to call in the experts. By getting on top of it early, you can keep your rental looking good and safe to live in.
Check The Legal Aspects First
Before you proceed with the repairs, be sure fixing the cracks is actually your responsibility. Usually, the landlord is responsible for any structural repairs. It’s your legal responsibility only if you’ve caused the damage yourself.
Your landlord is also responsible for wall damage that’s caused by necessary property repairs concerning the installation or repair of the heating, plumbing and electrical systems, so keep that in mind.
So, in general, proceed with repairs only after you’ve talked with your landlord and ensured it’s your legal responsibility.
Assess the Type of Crack
If you’re responsible for the wall cracks, your first course of action is size the problem up.
Start by seeing which way the crack’s going.
Horizontal ones are often more of a concern than vertical ones because they may lead to significant problems. Grab a ruler and measure its length and width. This is not only for documentation purposes but also to be able to check if it’s getting worse with time.
Take photos and jot down notes about any changes. This will really help when you’re chatting with your landlord, showing them exactly how serious the situation is.
Temporary Fixes for Minor Cracks
Dealing with minor cracks is simpler than you think, and it can be done if you’re a novice at these things. You’ll need some filler—something like Polyfilla is great—a putty knife, a bit of sandpaper, and a damp cloth.
Start by giving the crack a quick wipe with the cloth to clear away any dust. This makes sure the filler sticks well. Then, take your putty knife and gently press some filler into the crack.
You can use the edge of an old credit card to smooth it out if you don’t have a putty knife handy. Let it dry for a few hours, or longer if you can, just to be safe.
Once it’s dry, sand it lightly until it blends seamlessly with the rest of the wall. This nifty little fix not only tidies up your wall but also prevents any dust from settling in the crack.
Keep an eye on it, though—if it starts to grow, it might be time to call in a professionals.
Monitor For Signs of Crack Progression
Keeping an eye on wall cracks is super important to spot any issues early on. Just stick a bit of tape over the crack and jot down today’s date on it. This’ll help you keep track of any changes.
Every few weeks, grab a tape measure and check how big the crack is getting. This way, you can figure out if it’s just a small thing or something bigger that needs quick attention. Spotting these problems early helps keep your home safe and in good shape.
Document Everything for Your Landlord
Snapping photos and jotting down notes can make a world of difference should any disputes arise. Be sure to capture clear pictures in natural light from various angles, and don’t forget to include a ruler for scale.
Mark the date on each photo to keep track of changes over time. This way, you can catch any sneaky growth in those troublesome cracks before they morph into a bigger issue.
Keep a Detailed Written Record
It’s equally important to maintain a log so you can note any changes. Track down specifics about each crack, such as its location, size, and any changes you observe. Record the dates of these observations too.
You might even draw a simple sketch or use a notes app to keep everything tidy. This log provides a clear picture of whether the cracks are improving or worsening, helping you understand what’s happening.
Compile and Maintain Good Communication
Once you’ve gathered all your information, put it together in a report. Include your photos, notes, and any conversations you’ve had with your landlord. Presenting this in a clear manner highlights the seriousness of the issue and supports your repair requests.
Try using bullet points or a simple timeline to make everything straightforward. Clear communication not only speeds up wall crack repairs but also ensures a good relationship with your landlord.
By doing this, you’re not just fixing problems now but also taking care of the property’s future.
Communicate with Your Landlord
When you notice a crack, send a clear email or call them. Say where it is, how big, any changes you’ve seen, and attach some photos. This way, your landlord knows how serious the problem is.
Follow Up Appropriately
If you don’t hear back after a week, it’s a good idea to give them a gentle nudge. A friendly email or a quick phone call can help get their attention.
If they still don’t reply, you might want to reach out to UK rental support groups for advice on what to do next. Keep track of all your messages to show you’re being proactive. Staying friendly and professional can make things go smoother and get the repairs done faster.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice a crack that’s wider than a quarter of an inch, it’s worth grabbing a ruler for a closer look. Cracks this size could signal significant issues with the building, and ignoring them might lead to costly repairs down the road.
If your doors and windows start acting up and won’t close properly, it could be because the walls are moving. These are hints that need quick attention before they turn into bigger problems.
When you spot such red flags, it’s simply a must to enlist the help of a professional, such as a structural engineer or a reputable builder. They’ll investigate the situation and guide you on the best course of action.
Tackling issues early not only saves money but also ensures your home stays safe and comfortable. So, if you come across any odd cracks, don’t delay.
Conclusion
So, that’s how you handle wall cracks in a nutshell.
Keep an eye on them and jot down what you see, and most importantly, maintain open communication with your landlord. If things get worse, consider calling in a qualified professional to prevent it from escalating.
This way, you know what to expect and know for sure whether your home is in good shape or urgent action needs to be taken.
