Rental Property Maintenance Tasks Owners Might Forget
Owning a rental property can feel like a full-time juggling act. Between collecting rent and keeping tenants happy, it’s easy for some crucial maintenance tasks to slip through the cracks. While you’ve likely got the basics covered, a few forgotten chores can quickly snowball into costly repairs if not taken care of.
Here’s a rundown of five essential rental property maintenance tasks that landlords often overlook. Keeping these top of mind will help you ensure your investment stays in top shape and your tenants stay content.
Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Out of sight, out of mind—until a leak springs. Regularly inspecting your roof and gutters is non-negotiable for landlords. Look for missing shingles, signs of wear, and any debris that could cause water to pool.
Clogged gutters are a primary cause of water damage to both the roof and foundation. Schedule seasonal clean-ups, especially after fall and spring storms, to clear out leaves and other blockages. A little proactive work here can save you from major headaches and expensive water damage repairs down the line.
Service HVAC Systems
A functioning HVAC system is key to tenant comfort and your property’s energy efficiency. While tenants might change the air filters (if you’re lucky), it’s your responsibility to schedule professional inspections.
A yearly service can catch minor issues before they become major breakdowns, ensuring the system runs efficiently and keeps utility costs down for your tenants. A happy, comfortable tenant is a tenant who renews their lease.
Check Smoke and CO Detectors
This one is a life-saver, literally. It’s also a legal requirement in most places. Don’t just assume the detectors are working because they aren’t beeping. Test the batteries and the unit’s functionality at least twice a year, and especially between tenancies.
Take the time to document these checks in order to remain compliant with safety regulations. It’s a simple task that provides immense peace of mind and protection for everyone involved.
Perform Plumbing Maintenance
A slow drip can turn into a flood faster than you think. While there’s a lot you can do to keep your rental property’s drains in great shape, at the very least, you should make a habit of checking for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in basements or utility closets during routine inspections.
Be sure to also check for water stains, mold, or musty smells. Addressing small plumbing issues promptly prevents costly water damage, mold remediation, and the emergency calls from tenants that always seem to come at 2 a.m.
Implement Pest Control Measures
No one wants to share their home with uninvited critters. Routine pest control is a smart, preventative rental property task you might have forgotten about that keeps infestations at bay and avoids tenant complaints.
Schedule regular inspections and treatments, even if there are no visible signs of pests. This proactive approach is far more effective and less expensive than dealing with a full-blown infestation and the potential for unhappy tenants breaking their lease.
