Maintenance costs can get expensive for landlords, and you should be budgeting and saving every month for repairs. When you have some money put aside, sudden expenses will not seem so unmanageable. A good way to minimize the amount of money you need to spend on repairs and replacements is by staying on top of all your preventative maintenance. When you’re actively taking care of your property, you will be able to catch small problems before they turn into big problems.
Regular Inspections
Conduct regular inspections of your property so you have a good idea about how the systems and appliances are performing. You should always do a thorough inspection before a tenant moves in and after a tenant moves out, and schedule something on an annual basis so you can handle any preventative maintenance. Check under sinks to see if there are any leaks, make sure all the electrical outlets are working and run the dishwasher and the washer and dryer. Flush the toilets and look for areas that might need caulking in tubs, showers and around windows.
Heating and Air
The most expensive system in your property will likely be the heating and air conditioning units. Make sure those are serviced on an annual basis so the technician can alert you to any potential problems. Talk to your tenants about changing air filters frequently.
Outdoor Maintenance
Most roofs have a lifespan of about 20 years, so have yours inspected annually to make sure there are no shingles missing or holes developing. Clean out the gutters on a seasonal basis so your home isn’t prone to absorbing water. Keep the lawn and landscaping in good shape so you don’t have to spend a lot of money making it look presentable during tenant turnovers. Good Vendors Make sure you work with excellent vendors and contractors. They should be able to keep you on a preventative maintenance schedule that ensures everything is being inspected and serviced when it needs to be. When you have good relationships in place with plumbers, electricians, roofers and general contractors, you can be sure that the work you need will be done quickly, correctly and affordably. Train them to help you keep an eye out for maintenance matters that need attention. If you want to save money on maintenance, take a proactive approach to keeping your property in the best condition possible. Contact us at ARMI Property Management if you have any questions.
