Budget for landlord repair and maintenance costs
For educational purposes. Actual costs vary by property condition and location.
Tools that pair well with this calculator — selected by our team.
| Tool | Best For | Network |
|---|---|---|
| HomeAdvisor | $1.50–$16/lead | FlexOffers |
| Stessa | Property management for landlords | Direct |
We may earn a commission if you click above. Calculator is free to use.
The 1% rule: budget 1% of home value per year for repairs and maintenance. A $300K home = $3,000/year. Older homes require more. Emergency fund for major items (roof, HVAC) on top of the 1% budget.
Only if you have the skills and time. Poor repairs cost more in the long run. For rentals, professional repairs often pay for themselves in speed and quality. Budget for your time at an hourly rate and compare to hiring out.
Safety issues first (structural, electrical, plumbing). Then items that cause further damage (roof leaks, water damage). Then habitability issues (broken HVAC). Finally, cosmetic improvements. Document everything for insurance and tax purposes.