It is not the amount of the repairs that would disqualify them, there is no restriction on genuine rental losses. If the repairs are the result of wear and tear and/or damage resulting from the property being rented, they are legitimately expensed. If the work is something that increases that is an “improvement” then it is capital and can be added to the capital cost of the property, which if it is a principle residence has no cost impact.
I ask them enough questions for them to make a decision about what the costs are that I usually feel comfortable that the return is good.