First-time landlords often underestimate the importance of good property maintenance. They may not factor it into the costs of buying and managing a rental property, and this can lead to serious problems down the line.
It's your responsibility to keep a well-maintained rental property for your tenants. This will help you avoid vacancies, avoid serious damage or emergencies, and enhance your reputation.
We're here with a few top property maintenance tips to help you out. Read on for our brief property maintenance guide.
Do Routine Property Maintenance
Scheduled routine maintenance is the number one way to avoid future problems and keep a well-maintained property for your tenants. Many landlords choose to only use maintenance services when there are problems, but this leads to maintenance emergencies (which are far more expensive).
You should maintain common areas, plumbing, and the HVAC system without requests. This will create a better environment for yourself and your tenants, and it will help you avoid situations like power outages or a lack of running water.
When your tenants aren't able to access heat or water, you may be responsible for finding them a more suitable temporary living situation.
Respond to Requests Quickly
Don't save maintenance requests for later. As soon as you receive one, respond to it as quickly as possible.
Tenants who experience leaks aren't likely at fault for them. Those leaks may seem inconsequential, but they can lead to flooding, mold, and water damage if you don't address them right away.
It's helpful to have an online portal for maintenance requests so you have easy access to them. Consider having 24/7 maintenance services so your tenants never have to deal with poor living conditions.
Consider Sending Tenants Maintenance Queries
Some tenants may struggle to contact you for maintenance requests. Whether this is due to anxiety, a lack of time, or simple forgetfulness, it's not uncommon for them to leave simple issues unchecked.
While most of these issues will be minor, it's still helpful to take care of them as quickly as possible. Consider sending out occasional notes to tenants to check in and ask if they need anything.
This may prompt tenants to make any requests that they've been putting off.
Invest in Property Management to Help
If responding to maintenance requests is overwhelming to you, consider hiring a property management company. Experienced property managers will handle maintenance requests and send a professional to help as soon as possible.
Responding to requests right away is often difficult for landlords who also work full-time jobs. Let someone else take care of it for you.
Property Maintenance: Explained
Property maintenance is one of your top responsibilities as a landlord. Your tenants deserve to live in a safe and comfortable space.
By performing routine maintenance, responding quickly to requests, sending out occasional tenant notes, and investing in property management, you'll be able to keep a well-maintained property with ease.
Are you ready to get help from experienced property managers in Spokane? We want to help you. At HomeRiver Group, our team is ready to handle all of your property management needs. Contact us so we can start working together today.
