Keeping your rental property in good condition will make sure your tenants love it! With this, there are many benefits that come, and many difficulties, such as high tenant turnover or higher costs down the road, that can be avoided. Doing so requires you to know what to look for and when to schedule repairs.
From inspections to preventive measurements, let’s discuss the basics of rental property maintenance and how to stay on top of repairs.
Inspections
During an inspection, a landlord should look for a variety of things that can be included in the list below.
Structural Integrity
The most important aspect of a rental home inspection is assessing the home's structural integrity. This includes looking for signs of water damage, checking for pests, and examining the roof, walls, floors, and foundation for any signs of damage or wear. Remember to inspect doors, windows, electrical outlets, and other fixtures to make sure they are functioning properly.
Cleanliness & Condition of Appliances & Fixtures
A rental home should be kept clean and in good condition. During an inspection, landlords should look for any areas needing cleaning, such as carpets, floors, walls, and windows. According to these Long Beach property managers they should also check the condition of appliances, such as the refrigerator stove, and fixtures like faucets and light fixtures.
Potential Safety Hazards
Landlords should also be on the lookout for any potential safety hazards. This includes checking for any exposed wires or damaged electrical outlets, examining stairs and railings for stability, and looking for any damaged or loose floorboards.
Check to see that the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly and that fire extinguishers are present and in good condition.
Scheduling Repairs
Once you've identified what needs to be repaired, take action promptly. You can do some of the easier tasks yourself, or you can hire a professional to make sure the job runs smoothly. Let’s oversee the process together.
Developing a Schedule
The best way to ensure repairs for property maintenance are done in a timely manner is to create a schedule. You should make it a priority to inspect your rental property on a regular basis, at least once every six months. This will help you identify any potential issues before they become bigger problems. If you spot any areas needing attention, such as damaged walls or faulty wiring, you should note them and put them on your schedule for repair.
When creating your maintenance schedule, it is also important to factor in the seasons. For example, it may be necessary to check the roof after a harsh winter or clean the gutters and downspouts before heavy rains. This will help you finish the repairs in a timely manner before it becomes more challenging to complete them.
Hiring a Professional
Consider collaborating with an expert, especially for harder projects, rather than attempting to do the work yourself. Hiring a professional ensures that the job is done right the first time and that tenants are safe and comfortable. A professional also has the necessary knowledge and experience to identify potential problems and take preventive measures to reduce the chance of future repairs.
When hiring a professional, be sure to check their license number and references. You should also research their rates and ensure that their services align with your budget. Remember to read the contract thoroughly and ask questions before signing it to ensure that you understand all of the terms and conditions.
Preventative Maintenance
In addition to conducting regular inspections and scheduling repairs, it's a good idea to take a preventative approach to rental property maintenance. This includes regular cleaning and maintenance of the property, including the HVAC system, plumbing, and electrical systems. Additionally, consider investing in pest control services to reduce the risk of infestations.
We also advise you to keep up with regular landscaping. This includes mowing the lawn, trimming trees, shrubs, and removing weeds. Doing so will not only help keep the property looking nice, but it can also help prevent damage caused by overgrown plants.
How a property manager can help
A property manager can be a great asset to landlords in regard to maintenance and repairs. They are experts in property maintenance and can provide a range of services to keep properties in optimal condition. They can also inspect properties regularly, advise landlords of necessary repairs, and manage those repairs. This will ensure they are done promptly and cost-effectively.
Conclusion
Rental property maintenance is essential for keeping your investment in good condition. To ensure that your property is in top shape, it's important to conduct regular inspections, schedule repairs promptly, and take a preventative approach to maintenance. Following these steps can help you see that your rental property is safe, secure, and attractive to potential tenants.
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