Owning a rental property comes with a lot of responsibilities, one of which is property maintenance. As a landlord or Airbnb host, you are responsible for ensuring that your property is safe, comfortable, and habitable for your tenants. This includes everything from making sure the roof is in good condition to ensuring that the plumbing and electrical systems are working correctly. Failure to maintain the property can result in legal issues, including lawsuits from tenants and guests, fines from local authorities, and decreased property values.
Rental property maintenance is a specialized industry that requires a significant amount of knowledge and expertise. You need to be knowledgeable not only in the technical aspects of property maintenance but also of the legal ramifications that come with the job.
As a landlord, you must know many things to manage your rental property and achieve optimal results effectively. This includes understanding local building codes, safety standards, and environmental regulations, as well as knowing how to properly document and report any maintenance and repair issues. The following are some recommendations for maintaining your rental property.
1. Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are an essential part of rental property maintenance. They allow property owners to identify and address issues before they become major problems that could impact tenants’ safety or comfort. Inspections should be conducted at least once a year, but more frequent inspections may be necessary depending on the property’s age, condition, and location.
During inspections, property owners should check all areas of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, and appliances. Additionally, property owners should ensure that the property has clean and safe water for tenants to use. One way to improve water quality is by installing a Berkey water filter, which can remove contaminants and provide safe drinking water.
Inspecting the Berkey water filter periodically is also necessary to ensure that it functions correctly and provides clean water. Property owners can provide their tenants with safe and clean water by conducting regular inspections and maintaining the Berkey water filter while ensuring that the property is in top condition.
2. Plumbing
Plumbing is one of the critical systems in a rental property, and it’s essential to ensure it’s in good condition to prevent costly repairs and damage. Regular plumbing maintenance and inspections are necessary to identify any potential issues and address them promptly.
Plumbing issues can cause significant damage to rental properties and lead to costly repairs. Property owners should regularly inspect the plumbing systems and immediately fix any leaks, clogs, or other issues.
Property owners should also use high-quality plumbing materials when conducting repairs or installations to ensure their longevity. Plumbing issues can be prevented by hiring a licensed plumber to conduct regular inspections and address any issues promptly.
For example, using PVC or copper pipes instead of galvanized pipes can help prevent corrosion and rust, which can lead to leaks and water damage. Another way to prevent plumbing issues is to install water-saving fixtures like low-flow toilets and showerheads.
These fixtures use less water than traditional ones, which can save on utility costs and reduce water usage. Property owners can also install motion-activated faucets, which can prevent tenants from leaving the water running for extended periods, which can save on water bills.
By prioritizing plumbing maintenance and improvements, property owners can keep their rental properties in top condition and prevent any plumbing-related issues.
It’s also essential to maintain the property’s plumbing infrastructure, such as the sewer and drainage systems. Regular inspections of the sewer line can identify any potential issues like tree root intrusion, which can lead to blockages and backups.
Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the property’s drainage systems are functioning correctly, as improper drainage can lead to water damage and mold growth.
3. HVAC
The HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) is a crucial part of a rental property’s infrastructure that is responsible for ensuring tenants’ comfort and safety.
Maintaining the HVAC system is crucial for rental properties to ensure the comfort and safety of tenants. Regular maintenance of the HVAC system is essential to prevent breakdowns, ensure efficient operation, and maintain good air quality inside the property.
Proper HVAC maintenance can also save on energy costs and reduce the property’s environmental impact. Property owners should have the system inspected and serviced by a licensed professional regularly to identify potential issues and ensure it operates efficiently.
During these inspections, the technician can identify any potential issues with the system, such as worn-out parts, leaks, or damaged ducts. Address them before they turn into significant problems. Additionally, changing air filters and cleaning air ducts can improve the air quality inside the property and prevent HVAC breakdowns.
Air filters should be changed every one to three months
Don’t forget this step! Depending on the filter’s type and the system’s usage. Dirty filters can reduce the system’s efficiency and lead to poor air quality inside the property, so it’s crucial to replace air filters regularly.
Cleaning air ducts can also improve air quality and prevent blockages that can cause the system to work harder than necessary. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient HVAC system can save on utility costs and attract tenants who value sustainability.
Energy-efficient HVAC systems are designed to consume less energy while still providing adequate heating and cooling. Property owners can provide their tenants with a comfortable and healthy living environment by prioritizing HVAC maintenance and upgrades.
Property owners can also consider installing programmable thermostats that allow tenants to set temperatures for different times of the day or adjust the temperature remotely, which can help save on energy costs.
4. Electrical
Electrical maintenance is an essential aspect of rental property maintenance that should never be overlooked. Issues with electrical systems can pose a significant safety hazard in rental properties, so it’s crucial to prioritize electrical maintenance and repairs.
Property owners should hire licensed electricians to inspect the electrical systems and address issues like outdated wiring, faulty outlets, or electrical surges.
One of the most crucial aspects of electrical maintenance is ensuring that the electrical systems in the property are up to code and safe. This involves hiring licensed electricians to inspect the electrical systems and address issues like outdated wiring, faulty outlets, or electrical surges.
Property owners should also ensure that any electrical work is done by licensed professionals who follow local electrical codes and standards. Additionally, installing energy-efficient lighting and appliances can reduce energy usage and save on utility costs for property owners and tenants.
Energy-efficient lighting and appliances use less energy than traditional ones, which can help reduce the property’s environmental impact and save tenants money on their utility bills.
Ensuring that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors function correctly is also crucial to keeping tenants safe. These detectors can save lives by alerting tenants to a fire or carbon monoxide leak, so it’s crucial to test them regularly and replace batteries as needed.
Property owners should also consider installing a whole-house surge protector to protect the property’s electrical system from power surges, which can damage appliances and electronics. By proactively addressing electrical maintenance and upgrades, property owners can maintain their rental properties’ safety and appeal.
5. Landscaping
Landscaping is an important aspect of rental property maintenance that can have a significant impact on the property’s curb appeal and overall value.
Maintaining a rental property’s landscaping is essential to make it more attractive to potential tenants and create a welcoming environment. Well-maintained landscaping can also create a welcoming environment for tenants and attract quality tenants who value a beautiful outdoor space.
Property owners should ensure the lawn is regularly mowed, trees and bushes trimmed, and any dead or dying plants removed. Adding low-maintenance landscaping elements, such as drought-resistant plants and mulch, can also reduce upkeep and save on landscaping costs.
Property owners can create a positive first impression and attract quality tenants by investing in landscaping maintenance. Property owners should ensure that the irrigation system is functioning correctly and that the property is being watered adequately. This can prevent dry patches from forming and keep the lawn looking lush and healthy.
Property owners should also consider adding additional landscaping features to the property, such as a garden or outdoor cozy patio area. These features can enhance the property’s appeal and create a more welcoming environment for tenants. However, it’s important to ensure that these features are properly maintained and do not create any safety hazards.
6. Painting
When it comes to maintaining rental properties, painting is an essential task that can improve the property’s appearance and attract potential tenants.
A fresh coat of paint can give a property a new and updated look, covering any marks or scuffs that may have accumulated over time. However, it’s necessary to ensure that the paint used is safe and of good quality. Preparing the surfaces before painting is also a crucial aspect of painting maintenance.
This involves cleaning the surfaces thoroughly, sanding any rough or uneven spots, and repairing any cracks or holes. Property owners should also consider installing a water filtration system to improve the water quality used during the painting process. Clean water can help the paint adhere better to the surfaces and prevent contamination. By combining regular painting and a reliable water filtration system, property owners can maintain their rental properties and provide a safe and healthy environment for their tenants.
Recap of property maintenance items to remember
It’s important to take all of these areas of your home into consideration for regular inspections. Don’t wait until your tenant or Airbnb guest breaks something to check in.
Hey, I’m Melissa.
As an Airbnb Superhost and someone who is passionate about investing in real estate, I created Beach Life Bliss to share my experiences and help short term rental operators. I have been a landlord for over 10 years and started my first Airbnb property in 2019.
Creating a space with amenities that guests love, beautifully designed rooms, and providing exceptional hospitality will make your Airbnb business thrive.
I hope that all of my Airbnb Hosting Tips are helpful as you navigate the challenges and rewards of being a short term rental owner and operator!
