Are you a new landlord trying to figure out how to effectively and efficiently manage your rental property? This can seem overwhelming, especially if you have multiple properties to handle. Not only is the process of finding a tenant time-consuming, but your responsibilities don't end there.
As a landlord, you're typically responsible for the seasonal maintenance of the property, and depending on your lease terms, you might be responsible for the daily upkeep as well.
We're here to help make this a bit easier for you with this complete rental property maintenance checklist. Read on for our list.
1. HVAC Maintenance
Regular maintenance of HVAC systems includes changing air filters (depending on how much the HVAC is used, you may need to change them every 30-90 days). It's also wise to do preventative maintenance at the start of the winter and summer, especially if you live in an area that experiences extreme heat or cold.
2. Pest Control
This is especially important in hot weather states that are more prone to bugs, such as cockroaches. Regular pest control will help keep bugs and critters out of your property and protect it from any damage that they can cause.
3. Landscaping
Landlords typically handle landscaping duties at their properties. This means regular trimming, edging, grass cutting, weeding, replenishing mulch or stone, and keeping the landscaping looking fresh and inviting.
4. Exterior Maintenance
Regular inspections of the exterior are necessary so you can address any issues before they become serious. Look for leaks and water damage, cracks in the foundation, and gutters that may be loose or clogged with leaves and other debris. Clogged gutters can result in water damage or leaks into your home.
Check any windows for cracks that allow in drafts or water and replace weather stripping on doors that may allow in drafts as well. It's wise to inspect the exterior of the property quarterly or at the change of each season.
5. Indoor Inspections
The easiest way to inspect the interior of your property is when you are in the process of turning over tenants. However, if you have a long-term tenant with a multi-year lease, this is not possible. A great deal of damage could be lingering in the home during this time without you being aware of it.
In the event of a long-term tenant, you should require periodic inspections of their interior to ensure that there are no leaks, malfunctioning smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, or other significant damage. Regular property inspections are something that you can include in your lease agreement.
Use Our Rental Property Maintenance Checklist
Take the guesswork out of maintaining your investment with our rental property maintenance checklist. Preventative maintenance can make all the difference in reducing repair costs in the long run.
If handling all of this on your own seems like more than you prefer to take on, a property management company can take care of it all for you. At Blue Line Property Management, we can handle every aspect of the rental process for you, from marketing the property to managing the day-to-day operations.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you manage your Bay Area rental property.
