Living in a student apartment near Arizona State University comes with plenty of perks—independence, community amenities, and a short commute to campus. But like any rental, maintenance issues can pop up unexpectedly. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a broken air conditioner, or a faulty appliance, it’s important to know what steps to take when something in your apartment needs repair. Here’s what ASU students should do if a maintenance problem arises.
Who to Contact First
As soon as you notice a maintenance issue, don’t wait. Even small problems can turn into bigger ones if ignored. Your first point of contact should always be your apartment’s leasing office or maintenance team. Most apartments in Tempe offer an online portal where you can quickly submit a maintenance request. Be sure to provide a detailed description of the issue and note whether it needs urgent attention.
For urgent problems—like water leaks, electrical outages, or HVAC failures—call your leasing office directly. Many properties also provide a 24-hour emergency maintenance line, so make sure you know where to find that information when you move in.
It’s helpful to follow up any verbal requests with an email so there’s a written record of your communication. Include photos or videos if you can; visual documentation can help the maintenance team assess the issue more accurately.
If you’re living in off campus international student housing ASU, don’t hesitate to ask your property manager for clarification on how to report issues. International students may face language barriers or uncertainty about procedures, but leasing offices are generally more than willing to help.
If It’s Not Getting Fixed
So what happens if you’ve submitted your request, followed up, and nothing’s changed? In most cases, the delay is due to scheduling or ordering replacement parts—but if you feel like you’re being ignored, you have options.
First, check your lease agreement. Many student leases include timeframes for addressing maintenance requests, especially if the issue impacts your ability to live safely or comfortably. If your property fails to meet these timelines, escalate the issue by contacting the property manager or sending a formal letter.
If you’re in a shared unit like one of the many 2 bedroom apartments Tempe offers, coordinate with your roommate(s) to report the issue together. Multiple complaints often prompt faster action.
In extreme cases—such as ongoing mold, pest infestations, or a lack of heat or water—you may have the legal right to withhold rent or break your lease. However, these actions should only be taken after you’ve thoroughly documented the issue and consulted with a tenants’ rights organization or attorney.
Final Thoughts
Maintenance issues are an unfortunate but common part of renting. The good news is that most apartments in Tempe strive to provide timely repairs and responsive service. By knowing who to contact, how to follow up, and when to escalate, you can keep your living situation comfortable and stress-free throughout your time at ASU.
