You were taught PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY, these freeloaders were not.
You’ve signed a contract with your landlord.....I choose to look at it as an agreement I will take care of this place and they’ll take care of the property when needed. (though I generally do my own repairs). I’ve been fortunate as I’ve always had great landlords. But then I never rent from big outfits, rather look for private owners. Plus their apartments have charm you won’t find in box apartments.
Yes, personal responsibility was taught. My mother always said...”Paddle your own canoe”...and “Pay your rent first”....she had an equation I’ve followed....never pay more in rent than two weeks of your pay check. It’s worked well for me.