Landlord is slow to respond
- Most likely
- Verbal requests with no record
- DIY approach
- Submit one written request per issue with a photo and your availability.
- When to call a pro
- Escalate habitability issues in writing.
- Typical cost
- $0
Renters
Protect your deposit and get repairs scheduled
Almost every deposit dispute comes down to documentation nobody kept. Photograph the unit on day one, keep every request in writing, and repeat the same photo set on the way out.
Common problems and what they usually mean
Not sure what counts as an emergency
- Most likely
- Unclear lease language
- DIY approach
- No heat, no water, sewage backup, exposed wiring and gas odor are emergencies.
- When to call a pro
- Call, then confirm the call in writing.
- Typical cost
- $0
Small damage at move-out
- Most likely
- Normal wear vs. damage confusion
- DIY approach
- Patch nail holes, replace bulbs and the HVAC filter, clean thoroughly.
- When to call a pro
- Not needed.
- Typical cost
- $20–$60
Deposit withheld
- Most likely
- No baseline evidence
- DIY approach
- Send your timestamped move-in and move-out photo sets with a written itemized response.
- When to call a pro
- Consult local tenant resources if unresolved.
- Typical cost
- $0
Cost ranges are planning information for the Dallas–Fort Worth area, not quotes. Only an in-person inspection by a qualified professional produces an assessment you can rely on.
Checklist
- Photograph every room from two corners on day one
- Test every outlet and faucet before unpacking
- Email the photo set to yourself and the landlord same-day
- Keep every maintenance request in writing
- Repeat the identical photo set at move-out
Safety first
- Do not attempt repairs your lease assigns to the landlord
- Report gas odor and exposed wiring immediately
- Never disable a smoke or CO detector