Mexico City apartment maintenance checklist for expats

Living in Mexico City long-term means getting familiar with a set of maintenance realities that are specific to this city — the rainy season, old plumbing, electrical systems not designed for modern loads, and water quality. This checklist covers what to check and when.

Before the rainy season (March–May)

• Check the azotea waterproofing if you have roof access. Look for cracks, bubbling or areas where the coating is lifting. If it looks deteriorated and is more than 3–4 years old, waterproof before June.
• Clear roof drains of leaves and debris so water doesn't pool during heavy rain.
• Check window seals — particularly on upper floors where wind-driven rain can get in.

Water (every 6 months)

• Change water filter cartridges if you have an under-sink filter. A clogged cartridge can actually worsen water quality.
• Check for slow leaks under kitchen and bathroom sinks. Small drips become mould problems in enclosed cabinet spaces.
• Check boiler temperature — it should produce reliably hot water within a few minutes of turning on a tap.

Electrical (once a year)

• Check outlets for warmth — an outlet that's warm to the touch without anything plugged in is a warning sign.
• Note any flickering lights or repeated breaker trips — these indicate a circuit that needs attention, not just a reset.
• If your building is pre-1980s, consider a professional check of the main panel, especially before installing high-draw appliances like ACs or washing machines.

Doors and locks

• Test all locks — a lock that requires force to open or close is a small problem now and a locked-out-of-your-apartment problem later.
• Check door alignment — doors that drag or don't close cleanly are usually a quick fix (hinge adjustment or light planing) if caught early.

If you manage an Airbnb

Run through this checklist between guest stays rather than annually. What's a minor inconvenience for a resident becomes a one-star review when a guest encounters it. See our Airbnb maintenance plans →