** Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage plumbing and the fumes can make them unsafe to handle **

Step 1: Remove Debris

Wear rubber gloves (this can get messy). Check for hair, food, or other debris near the drain opening. Use your fingers, tweezers, or a bent wire hanger to pull out anything visible.

Step 2: Use a Drain Snake

Insert the snake into the drain, push it in as far as it will go, and rotate it while pulling back gently. This can grab or break up clogs deeper in the pipe. Drain snakes can be purchased for under $5 at most hardware or grocery stores. 

Step 3: Try a Plunger

If the drain is still clogged, use a plunger. Add enough water to cover the drain, then place the plunger over it. Push and pull forcefully several times to create suction and dislodge the clog.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, please submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal. Attach pictures to your request if possible—it helps us understand the problem better!

** Stay Safe - If the alarm is actively sounding, focus on your safety first! Leave your home if necessary and call 911 if you suspect danger **

Step 1: Check for False Alarms

If it’s a smoke detector and there is no smoke or fire, identify potential triggers such as cooking, smoking, vaping, or even steam from a hot shower. Improve the airflow near the detector by opening windows, doors, or turning on a fan. This should stop the alarm.

Step 2: Try the Reset Button

For intermittent chirping (every 30-60 seconds), locate the reset button on the detector and press it. This can often resolve the issue.

Step 3: Replace the Battery

If chirping continues after reset, you'll need to replace the battery.

Note: Removing the battery without replacing it will not stop the chirping. 

Step 4: Test the Detector Every 6 Months

Smoke and CO2 detectors should be tested every six months to ensure they’re working. Press the ‘test’ button to check functionality—this is a tenant responsibility.

** Use a step ladder for safety! We do not advise or recommend standing on unstable furniture to reach your detectors**

If you’ve replaced the battery and it’s still chirping, submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal. Include a description of what troubleshooting you've already tried in order for us to better assist you.

Step 1: Jiggle the Handle

Sometimes the issue is as simple as the toilet handle not fully resetting after flushing. Gently jiggle the handle to see if that stops the water flow.

Step 2: Check the Chain Inside the Tank

Carefully remove the lid from the toilet tank and look inside. If the chain connected to the handle is tangled or caught, straighten it out so the flapper (the rubber part at the bottom) can fully close.

Note: The water in the tank is clean, so it’s safe to reach in there! You can wear rubber gloves if the thought of reaching down there with your bare hands gives you the ick.

Step 3: Adjust the Flapper

If the flapper isn’t sitting properly over the drain at the bottom of the tank, adjust it so it forms a seal. This is often the cause of a running toilet.

Step 4: Adjust the Float

The float is a small device that controls the water level in the tank. If the water is too high, the toilet might keep running. Gently move the float downward to stop the water. 

If these steps don’t fix the problem, submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal. Be sure to describe the issue or include pictures—that can help us fix it faster!

Step 1: Check the Handle and Chain

If the handle feels loose or doesn’t move properly, open the toilet tank and check the chain connected to it. The chain might have come loose or disconnected. Reattach it if needed.

Step 2: Check the Water Level

Lift the lid of the tank and see if there’s enough water inside. If the water level is too low, the toilet won’t flush properly. It should be about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube (a vertical pipe in the middle of the tank). Make sure the float isn’t stuck, as this controls the water level. Gently adjust it to allow the tank to refill.

Step 3: Use a Plunger for Clogs

If the handle and tank look fine but the toilet won’t flush fully, there might be a clog. Use a plunger to clear the blockage. Place the plunger over the drain at the bottom of the bowl and push and pull firmly to create suction. This should help dislodge any clogs.

Step 4: Check the Flapper

If the flapper (the rubber part at the bottom of the tank) is stuck open or isn’t sealing properly, water can’t fill the tank. Adjust it so it closes securely.

If the toilet still isn’t flushing after trying these steps, submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal. Include (appropriate) pictures or a description of the issue to help us resolve it quickly.

Step 1: If You’ve Recently Used Hot Water - Just Wait a Bit!

If you’ve recently taken a long shower or used a lot of hot water, the tank might need time to refill and reheat. Wait 30-60 minutes and check again.

Step 2: Check the Water Heater Temperature Setting

Look at the thermostat on the water heater. The recommended temperature is around 120°F. If it’s set too low, increase it slightly and wait 30-60 minutes to see if the water heats up.

Step 3: Check the Water Heater Power Supply

• Electric Water Heater: Make sure the breaker for the water heater hasn’t tripped. Locate the breaker box, find the switch labeled "Water Heater," and ensure it’s in the "ON" position. If it’s tripped, flip it off and back on.
• Gas Water Heater: Check that the gas supply is on. There’s usually a valve near the water heater—make sure it’s aligned with the pipe (open position).

Step 4: Inspect for Leaks or Damage

Check around the water heater for any visible leaks, odd noises, or signs of damage. If you spot any issues, submit a maintenance request right away.

If these steps don’t fix the problem or you’re unsure about trying them, submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal. Include a brief description of the issue and let us know if you’ve already tried these steps.

** Never put your hands inside the garbage disposal - even if it's not running, there are sharp blades inside! **

Step 1: Check the Power

Make sure the garbage disposal is plugged in under the sink. If it is, check your breaker box to see if the circuit has tripped. Reset the breaker if needed.

Step 2: Press the Reset Button

Look for a small red button on the bottom or side of the disposal unit. Press it to reset the disposal. If it was tripped, the reset button will pop out slightly.

Step 3: Check for a Clog in the Sink

If water isn’t draining, the sink itself might be clogged. Try plunging the sink to clear the blockage.

Step 4: Check for Overloading

If the disposal still isn’t working, it may be overloaded. Remove any food scraps that may have been jammed - using tongs or something similar to keep your hands safe - then reset the unit, and try running it again with cold water running.

Important Notes:

• Garbage disposals are designed for small food scraps only. Never put items like glass, plastic, metal, bottle caps, or utensils down the disposal—these can damage the blades and motor.
• Avoid grinding large amounts of fibrous foods (like celery) or hard items (like bones).
• Never use hot water while the disposal is running; it can melt grease and cause clogs.

If none of these steps work, submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal. Include a description of what you’ve tried to help us resolve the issue faster.

Step 1: Clean the Lint Trap

Remove the lint trap and clear off any visible lint. A clogged lint trap blocks airflow, making it harder for the dryer to work. If it looks dusty or hasn’t been cleaned in a while, you can also use a vacuum to remove deeper lint buildup. Once it’s clean, slide it back into place.

Please do not attempt to open or remove any parts of the dryer or vent yourself!

Step 2: Avoid Overloading the Dryer

If the dryer is packed full, there won’t be enough space for air to circulate properly. Take out some clothes and try drying a smaller load instead. Overloading is one of the most common reasons clothes don’t dry well.

Step 3: Check the Dryer Cycle Settings

Double-check that you’re using a dryer cycle that is appropriate for your clothes. Some cycles, like “Air Fluff,” don’t use heat at all, which means clothes will take much longer to dry. If needed, switch to a heat cycle like “Normal” or “High Heat.”

Step 4: Avoid Wet, Heavy Items

Clothes that are still soaking wet after being washed will take forever to dry. If you notice this, run an extra spin cycle in the washer to remove more water before transferring clothes to the dryer.

If you’ve tried these steps and the dryer still isn’t drying properly, submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal. Let us know what you’ve already checked, and we’ll take care of the rest.

** Safety First - If you notice any strange smells or sparks coming from the outlet, DO NOT attempt to troubleshoot or continue to use. Submit a maintenance request and mark it as urgent. Call 911 immediately if you suspect an electrical fire **

Step 1: Check Other Outlets

Plug something into nearby outlets to see if they’re working. If none of the outlets in the room work, there might be a larger electrical issue. If just one outlet isn’t working, move to the next step.

Step 2: Test the Circuit Breaker

Go to your breaker panel and look for any switches that are in the middle position or flipped all the way off. A tripped breaker will usually be easy to spot. Flip the breaker all the way off and then back on to reset it.

Step 3: Is it a GFCI Outlet?

If the outlet is near water (like in a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room), it might be a GFCI outlet. You'll be able to tell because these outlets have “reset” and “test” buttons. Press the “reset” button until you hear it click, and then test your outlet again.

Step 4: Check the Plugged-In Item

Sometimes the problem isn’t with the outlet, but with the item you’re trying to use. Plug a different item into the outlet to see if it works.

If the outlet still doesn’t work after trying these steps, or if you notice any burn marks, submit a maintenance request immediately through the tenant portal.

If lights, outlets, or appliances in just one specific area of your home suddenly stop working, it is likely due to a tripped circuit breaker. This often happens when too many devices are plugged into the same circuit or when an appliance draws too much power.

Step 1: Locate the Breaker Panel

Find the breaker panel, usually located in a utility closet, garage, or hallway. Open the panel and look for any switches that aren’t fully in the “on” position. A tripped breaker often sits in the middle or “off” position.

Step 2: Reset the Tripped Breaker

Flip the tripped breaker all the way to the “off” position and then back to “on.” This should restore power to the affected area.

Step 3: Avoid Overloading the Circuit

If the breaker trips again after resetting, unplug some items from the affected outlets and try resetting it again. Overloading the circuit (having too many electrical items on at the same time) is a common cause of repeated trips.

If you’ve tried resetting the breaker and the problem persists, or the breaker keeps tripping even when it doesn't seem to be overloaded, please submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal.

Step 1: Make Sure It’s Plugged In

Double-check that the appliance is securely plugged into the outlet. It’s surprisingly common for plugs to become loose or unplugged during everyday use.

Step 2: Check the Power Switch or Settings

Some appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines, have their own power switches or control panels. Make sure the appliance is turned on and set correctly for the task.

Step 3: Test the Outlet

Try plugging another small item, like a phone charger or lamp, into the same outlet to make sure it’s working. If the outlet doesn’t work, refer to the troubleshooting guide for outlets.

Step 4: Check the Circuit Breaker

Locate your breaker panel and see if any breakers are tripped. A tripped breaker can stop power to large appliances. Reset the breaker by flipping it all the way off and back on.

If the appliance still won’t turn on after checking these things, submit a maintenance request through the tenant portal.