As a rental property owner, the list of maintenance tasks to keep your property in top shape can seem never-ending. Missing a few smaller tasks might not cause immediate issues, but some maintenance tasks are essential every year. Neglecting these key maintenance tasks can lower tenant satisfaction and lead to significant repair costs in the long term. By completing these ten maintenance tasks, you’ll save you many headaches and hassles!
1. Regularly change furnace filters
Make sure furnace filters are changed regularly. Clogged filters can harm poor indoor air quality and reduce the longevity of your rental property’s furnace, leading to higher maintenance costs.
2. Clear the dryer vent
Regular maintenance on clothes dryer vents is crucial because it is one of the top causes of residential fires in the United States. A clogged dryer vent not only poses a severe fire hazard but can also attract unwanted pests and even contribute to mold problems.
3. Relight furnace pilot light
If you turn off your pilot light during warm months, don’t forget to relight it and perform a system check before cold weather arrives. This step ensures you’ll be able to get the furnace up and running without delays when the temperature drops.
4. Drain sediment from water heater
Sediment accumulates at the bottom of every water heater, which can impair its effectiveness. Draining it once per year will extend the life of your rental property’s water heater and help keep it running smoothly.
5. Inspect for water leaks
Regularly check your property’s plumbing and be on the lookout for signs of leaks or pooling water. Repairing any leaks as soon as possible can help prevent costly water damage.
6. Change batteries for smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
Change the batteries in your rental property’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors annually. Proactive maintenance of these devices promotes tenant safety and prevents emergency beeps.
7. Lubricate garage door springs
If your rental property has a garage, it’s wise to lubricate the springs and wheels of your garage door once each year. An adequately lubricated garage door will function better and reduce the risk of sudden malfunctions.
8. Give your appliances some TLC
Extend the life of your rental property’s appliances by cleaning them, including vacuuming your refrigerator coils and inspecting seals. Routine maintenance helps this essential appliance work better.
9. Clean window weep holes
Many vinyl windows have weep holes on the exterior that help drain away water and condensation. But these holes can become clogged with dirt or insects. Simply flushing your weep holes out once a year can help avoid condensation and other moisture problems.
10. Check for pests
Finally, if you aren’t already doing so, you should carefully check your property for signs of pest infestation every year. Termites can start as a small problem. But if left unchecked, it can quickly become a nightmare scenario for you and your tenant.
Why not let the professionals handle the important yet time-consuming maintenance tasks for you? Real Property Management Shire Team offers a full range of property management and maintenance services from local experts in Dalton and nearby. You can have peace of mind that essential maintenance tasks are being done yearly. To learn more, contact us online or call 413-418-9600.
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