Renting should be straightforward, but dealing with landlords can be an absolute nightmare of an experience.
Some are reasonable, but others seem to have a script full of excuses, empty promises, and questionable logic. If you’ve ever had to chase them down for repairs or justify why basic living conditions should be met, you’ll probably recognise a few of these. Here are some of the most frustrating things landlords say — and how to handle them when they crop up. You have rights as a renter, and you have to protect yourself.
1. “I’ll get someone to look at it.”
Translation: “I have no intention of fixing this anytime soon.” If you hear this after reporting a problem, chances are it’s going to take several more follow-ups before anything actually happens. Some landlords hope you’ll forget about the issue altogether. The best way to deal with this is to get everything in writing. Send a follow-up email or text, so there’s a record of your request. If they still drag their feet, remind them that repairs affecting health and safety might violate tenancy laws.
2. “It was like that when you moved in.”
Ah yes, the classic excuse to avoid taking responsibility for damage or wear and tear. Some landlords will insist that a problem isn’t their issue because it “must have been there before.” Even if it’s something major, like a leaky pipe or broken window, they’ll try to shift the blame. That’s why taking photos when you move in is a must. If you didn’t, try to find emails or messages proving the issue wasn’t flagged before. And if they refuse to budge, check your tenancy agreement—repairs are usually their legal responsibility.
3. “I don’t think that’s a big deal.”
Of course, it’s not a big deal to them. —they don’t have to live with it. Whether it’s mould, a faulty boiler, or a broken lock, some landlords love to downplay problems as if they don’t matter. It’s a convenient way to delay action. If it’s something affecting your quality of life or safety, push back firmly. Remind them that their opinion on the issue doesn’t change their legal responsibilities. If they still won’t budge, check your rights and escalate the matter if needed.
4. “The last tenant never complained.”
Well, maybe the last tenant was too polite, too exhausted, or just gave up trying. Just because someone else didn’t raise an issue doesn’t mean it’s not a problem now. This line is often used to make tenants feel like they’re being unreasonable. The best response here is something along the lines of, “That’s interesting, but it doesn’t change the fact that this needs to be fixed.” Keep the conversation focused on the current situation rather than what happened before you lived there.
5. “I’ll have to check if I can afford that.”
Strange how landlords never seem short on cash when it’s time to raise the rent, but when something needs fixing, suddenly the budget is tight. Maintenance isn’t optional — it’s part of their responsibility as a property owner. Remind them that repairs are their responsibility and not a favour they’re doing for you. If they refuse on financial grounds, look into tenant rights — some repairs can’t legally be ignored, no matter how “broke” they claim to be.
6. “That’s just wear and tear.”
Funny how “wear and tear” only seems to apply when it benefits them. If you report a broken appliance, it’s “wear and tear,” but when you move out, and they want to keep your deposit, suddenly every tiny mark is “damage.” If they refuse to fix something by calling it wear and tear, check your contract. If it’s something they’re supposed to maintain, stand your ground. And when you move out, take pictures of everything to avoid unfair deductions.
7. “You’re the first person to have this problem.”
Really? Because that leaking ceiling looks like it’s been patched up a few times. Some landlords act like your complaint is brand new, even when the issue has clearly existed for years. Don’t let them make you feel like you’re imagining things. Ask for a timeline on when it will be fixed and follow up in writing. If the problem keeps getting ignored, look into tenant support services for advice.
8. “You should be grateful — rents have gone up everywhere.”
This one usually comes out when they’ve increased your rent but don’t want to justify it. The implication is that you should just accept it because things could be worse. If your rent increase seems unreasonable, check local rent controls and regulations. Ask for justification in writing and negotiate if possible. You’re not being ungrateful; you’re making sure you’re not being taken advantage of.
9. “It’s not worth fixing right now.”
Translation: “I don’t want to spend the money.” This excuse is often used for things that are inconvenient rather than urgent—like outdated fixtures, minor leaks, or appliances that “sort of” work. Let them know that small issues can become bigger, costlier ones if ignored. If it’s something covered by tenancy laws, remind them of their obligations. Some landlords just need a little pressure to take action.
10. “I can’t find anyone to do the work.”
Some landlords act like finding a repair person is as complicated as launching a space mission. Meanwhile, a quick online search would bring up dozens of professionals who could do the job. If they use this excuse, offer to find a contractor yourself and get quotes. Sometimes, putting the ball in their court forces them to act faster. If they still delay, check whether you can arrange repairs yourself and deduct the cost from rent.
11. “It’s only a temporary issue.”
They say this about everything, from no heating in the winter to persistent damp patches. Calling something “temporary” is an easy way to ignore it while hoping you’ll give up. Ask them for a timeline on when it will be fixed. If they can’t provide one, keep following up. Some “temporary” issues mysteriously last for years unless tenants push for solutions.
12. “You’re the best tenants I’ve ever had.”
This one usually comes right before a rent increase or a refusal to fix something. It’s a way of buttering you up so you’ll feel guilty for asking for what you’re entitled to. Take the compliment, but don’t let it distract you. Being a good tenant doesn’t mean accepting poor conditions or unfair treatment. If they genuinely appreciate you, they should show it through fair and reasonable management.
13. “That’s just how old buildings are.”
So what if the building is old? That doesn’t mean you should have to deal with dodgy electrics, bad plumbing, or freezing winters. Age isn’t an excuse for neglect. If your landlord tries this excuse, point out that legally required repairs apply to all buildings, regardless of age. Just because a place is historic doesn’t mean tenants should have to suffer.
14. “You won’t find anywhere cheaper.”
Landlords love to act like they’re doing you a favour by letting you rent their place. This phrase is usually meant to shut down complaints and make you feel trapped. Even if moving isn’t an option, you still deserve fair treatment. Remind them that rental prices don’t change their legal responsibilities. And if they truly believe the market is better elsewhere, maybe it’s time to start looking.
15. “You’ll get your deposit back if everything looks okay.”
Sounds harmless, right? Except this often turns into landlords nitpicking tiny things to justify keeping part of your deposit. Before moving out, document everything with photos. If they try to deduct unfair charges, challenge them with evidence. Knowing your rights can help you avoid getting shortchanged.
16. “I don’t usually do this, but…”
Whenever a landlord says this, brace yourself. They’re about to act like they’re doing you a massive favour when, in reality, they’re just doing the bare minimum. Whether it’s approving a basic repair or following tenancy laws, don’t let them make you feel indebted. Landlords have responsibilities, and meeting them isn’t an act of generosity—it’s their job.
