Residential Maintenance Obligations in Lithuania

The Lithuanian Civil Code establishes a clear divide between major structural maintenance, which falls to the property owner, and day-to-day upkeep, which is the responsibility of the tenant. Understanding this division is needed for preserving the property's value and avoiding costly disputes.

The Landlord's Obligations (Major Repairs) Lithuanian law dictates that landlords must deliver the rental property in a condition fit for its intended use-living safely. The landlord is generally responsible for major structural repairs and ensuring the core systems of the property function correctly. Unless specifically stated otherwise in a mutual contract, landlords must address:

• Structural Integrity: Issues with the roof, foundations, load-bearing walls, and exterior facades.
• required Utilities: Significant failures in the central plumbing, heating systems, and primary electrical wiring.
• Built-in Appliances: If the landlord provides large, built-in appliances (like a boiler or an integrated refrigerator) and they fail due to age or mechanical breakdown (not tenant negligence), the landlord must repair or replace them. Failure to Repair: If the landlord fails to conduct required major repairs in a timely manner, the Lithuanian Civil Code may grant the tenant several remedies, including:

1. Conducting the repairs themselves and deducting the reasonable cost from the rent.

2. Demanding a reduction in rent due to decreased property utility.

3. Terminating the lease agreement entirely if the space becomes uninhabitable.

The Tenant's Obligations (Minor Upkeep) Tenants are expected to treat the property with care and are typically responsible for minor, everyday repairs and general maintenance resulting from regular usage. Tenant responsibilities generally include:

• Routine Cleaning: Keeping the property in a sanitary and hygienic state.
• Minor Fixes: Replacing light bulbs, unblocking minor drain clogs, and changing air or water filters.
• Damage Repair: Taking responsibility (and paying for) any damages caused by their own negligence or the recklessness of their guests (e.g., breaking a window, staining a carpet, burning a countertop).

Reporting Requirements

Tenants have a firm obligation to act promptly when issues arise. If a pipe bursts or a significant defect is discovered, the tenant must immediately notify the landlord to mitigate further damage. - If a tenant ignores a leaking ceiling and the water damages the flooring, the tenant may be held financially liable for the compounded damage due to their failure to report the issue promptly.

Documenting Property Condition The absolute best way to establish who is responsible for a repair at the end of a lease is through meticulous documentation at the beginning.

The Handover Protocol A Handover Protocol (inventory and condition report) should be created and signed on move-in day. - It acts as the definitive record of the property's condition. - It should include detailed photographs of all major surfaces, floors, fixtures, and appliances. - It safeguards landlords from tenants claiming a defect "was already there," while also protecting tenants from unjustified deposit deductions.

Getting Started with Compliance communication regarding maintenance requests. By utilizing Landager's integrated ticketing features, property managers can track reports, manage maintenance timelines, and store required Handover Protocols, ensuring both you and your tenant remain compliant and satisfied.

How Landager Helps

Landager automates your Centre of Registers filing deadlines, tracks CPI-based rent escalations, and ensures your residential property meets all Lithuanian Civil Code requirements.

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