5 Essential Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your rental property is key to retaining tenants and avoiding costly repairs. Here are some essential maintenance tips for landlords:
Regular Inspections - Schedule regular property inspections to identify and address maintenance issues before they become major problems. Aim for quarterly inspections to keep everything in check. The most common areas to address can be some of the cheapest, smoke and CO detector batteries, leaks under sinks, HVAC filters, unsecure handrails to name a few.
Seasonal Maintenance - Here in Spokane, WA we love our four seasons but our properties must be prepared for seasonal changes. For instance, ensure the heating system is in good working order before winter and clean gutters in the fall to prevent water damage. Don't forget about those exterior faucets, make sure to disconnect any hoses and insulate if necessary!
Prompt Repairs - Address repair requests promptly to keep tenants happy and prevent minor issues from escalating. A quick response shows tenants that you care about their living conditions. Small repairs can turn into BIG repairs later if not addressed quickly. Small leaks in kitchen plumbing can ruin subfloor, cabinets flooring etc... Water loves to wreak havoc on our homes. Check under those sinks!
Property Upkeep - Regularly update and maintain the property's exterior, including landscaping, painting, and general cleanliness. A well-maintained property attracts and retains quality tenants. Some common areas of upkeep are keeping tree limbs and brush away from the property (tree limbs are notorious for reducing the life span of a roof) , limit wood to earth contact, providing furnace filters (if forced air) with a posted schedule on the unit for tenant to follow.
Emergency Preparedness - Have a plan in place for emergency repairs. Provide tenants with clear instructions on how to handle emergencies and whom to contact.
