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Owning a rental property comes with numerous responsibilities, and preventative maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and smooth operation of the property. By taking proactive steps, owners can avoid costly repairs and maintain a safe and pleasant living environment for their tenants.
Michelle McDermott and Charlotte Yow discuss essential preventative maintenance tasks for rental property owners.
HVAC System Maintenance
The HVAC system is one of the most crucial components to maintain in a rental property. Your HAVC system is a significant investment and proper upkeep can extend its lifespan and efficiency. We highly recommend enrolling in a preventative maintenance program, which typically involves servicing the HVAC system once or twice a year. Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring the system runs smoothly.
While our clients are free to choose any vendor, we have a preferred vendor known for their excellent service. This maintenance is vital for keeping tenants comfortable and preventing unexpected breakdowns.
Exterior Maintenance
Exterior maintenance tasks, such as power washing the house and cleaning the gutters annually, are easily overlooked, especially when the owner does not reside in the property. Neglecting these tasks can lead to HOA violations, gutter leaks, and water damage.
Regular power washing keeps the property looking its best, while clean gutters prevent water from overflowing and causing damage to the foundation and exterior walls. These are simple yet effective steps to preserve the property’s value and curb appeal. It's important to note that these tasks should be handled by professionals, as tenants are not typically responsible for such maintenance.
Optional and Miscellaneous Services
In addition to essential maintenance, several optional services can further protect and extend the life of various property components. For example, garage doors can benefit from regular inspections and lubrication of the springs to prevent mechanical issues. Wood-burning fireplaces should be inspected and cleaned annually to avoid carbon monoxide issues and ensure safe operation. Irrigation systems also require annual inspections and winterization to prevent burst pipes during cold months. These services, while optional, can save owners from costly repairs and enhance the property's overall appeal.
Preventative maintenance is a vital aspect of managing residential rental properties. By investing in these preventative measures, property owners can ensure their rentals remain in excellent condition, providing a safe and pleasant environment for their tenants, and ultimately saving time and money.
Remember, these maintenance tasks are considered standard operating expenses and are beneficial for your rental property.
If you're looking for a professional property manager in the greater Wilmington area, contact us or use our free rental analysis tool to find out what your property could rent for with us.