Top 3 Maintenance Calls in Southern California

If you own a rental property in Southern California, you know that maintenance issues can come up at the most inconvenient times. From plumbing leaks to faulty air conditioning, quick response and proactive care make all the difference for both owners and tenants. Understanding which maintenance calls happen most often can help you prepare, budget, and keep your tenants happy.

Here are the three most common maintenance calls we see in Southern California — and how you can prevent them from turning into major headaches.

Plumbing Leaks and Clogged Drains

Few things cause more frustration than plumbing problems. Southern California’s older housing stock often includes aging pipes, water heaters, and fixtures that can develop leaks or clogs with little warning.

Tenants often report issues like dripping faucets, low water pressure, or clogged kitchen drains. These are more than just annoyances — left unchecked, they can cause costly water damage or mold. We always recommend scheduling regular inspections, especially if your property is over 20 years old.

For owners adding or managing an ADU, plumbing layout and utility sharing become even more important. Our post on what utilities should be shared with your ADU explains how to set up systems correctly from the start.

HVAC Issues — Especially During Heat Waves

Southern California enjoys a mild climate most of the year, but summer heat can quickly overwhelm older air conditioning systems. Many of the maintenance calls we receive between June and September involve AC units that stop cooling efficiently or fail altogether.

Routine HVAC maintenance — like replacing filters every three months and servicing the unit annually — can prevent most breakdowns. Property owners who skip these simple tasks often face emergency calls and higher repair bills.

Before you find yourself in that position, review our guide on the top 3 rental property expenses that aren’t maintenance to see how preventative care fits into your overall budget.

Electrical and Lighting Problems

Electrical issues are another frequent call for Southern California rentals, especially in properties built before the 1980s. Tripped breakers, flickering lights, or outlets that stop working are all common complaints.

Tenants may also overload circuits with high-energy appliances or space heaters. Upgrading panels or replacing outdated wiring can prevent these issues and reduce fire risks. If you’re unsure how to handle upgrades, partnering with a property management company can simplify the process — our post on should you have a property manager for one rental property explains how even single-property owners benefit from professional help.

Proactive Maintenance Pays Off

Responding quickly to tenant requests is important, but proactive maintenance saves money in the long run. Scheduling regular inspections, building relationships with reliable vendors, and setting clear expectations with tenants all go a long way toward avoiding emergencies.

If you’ve recently built or purchased a rental in the area, our article on how often you should shop for a property management company outlines how to find the right support team. And if you’re still exploring rental markets, you might enjoy 3 cities in Orange County prime for rental properties — a great guide for where to invest next.

At Beach Cities Management, we specialize in keeping your property running smoothly — from tenant screening to full-service maintenance coordination. If you’re ready to take the stress out of managing repairs, call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our Owner Application online to get started.