The short answer on responsibility
In most rentals, the dryer vent — the duct inside the walls — is part of the property, which makes it the owner's responsibility to maintain. The lint trap is the renter's daily job. That said, lease terms vary, so check yours. When in doubt, the person who owns the walls owns the vent.
For renters: what to do
Clean the lint trap every load. This is always on you, and it matters.
Watch for warning signs. Long dry times, a hot dryer, a damp laundry room — know all seven signs. These affect your safety and your electric bill.
Tell the landlord in writing. If the vent seems clogged, report it by text or email so there is a record. Mention the safety angle — most landlords act fast once they understand the fire risk.
Do not hire vent work yourself without the owner's approval — but you can absolutely request it.
For landlords: why this is cheap insurance
A yearly vent cleaning costs far less than one month of vacancy — and far, far less than a fire. It also protects your dryer from premature burnout and keeps tenants' energy bills down, which keeps tenants happy. For multi-unit buildings, we offer building-wide scheduled service with documentation for your records.
What about the dryer itself?
If the landlord provided the dryer, its maintenance is typically theirs. If the tenant brought their own, the machine is theirs but the vent in the wall is still the property's. The transition hose between them is the gray area — we recommend landlords supply a proper metal one rather than leaving it to chance.
Renters, landlords, and property managers: Call (301) 679-9193 or send the form for a free estimate — no pressure, no obligation.