As a rental property owner, the list of maintenance tasks for your property may feel never-ending. While skipping a few minor tasks may not cause immediate issues, there are other maintenance tasks you should complete every year to maintain tenant satisfaction and avoid costly repairs. By completing these ten maintenance tasks, you’ll save yourself from many headaches and hassles!
1. Regularly change furnace filters
It’s essential to ensure that your furnace filters are changed regularly. Clogged filters not only reduce efficiency but also contribute to poor indoor air quality, potentially impacting your rental property’s furnace lifespan.
2. Clear the dryer vent
Clothes dryer vents are a maintenance task that should not be overlooked. Clogged dryer vents are one of the top causes of residential fires in the United States. Beyond being a fire hazard, a blocked vent can invite unwanted pests and even lead to mold problems.
3. Relight furnace pilot light
If you turn off your pilot light during warm months, be sure to relight it and check that it’s functioning properly before cold weather arrives. This way, you’ll ensure the furnace is ready for tenants without delay when they need it most. A quick relight and check will prevent potential discomfort for tenants who might otherwise have to wait for you to get the furnace up and running.
4. Drain sediment from water heater
Over time, sediment gathers at the bottom of every water heater. Draining the heater once a year will extend the life of your rental property’s water heater and keep it operating efficiently, preventing potential malfunctions.
5. Inspect for water leaks
Take time each year to check your property’s plumbing for signs of leaks or pooling water. Simple inspections of plumbing fixtures, sprinklers, and other water sources can catch small issues before they become significant, expensive problems.
6. Change batteries for smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
Be proactive in replacing the batteries in your rental property’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replacing them annually prevents that annoying beep and ensures the safety of your tenants, adding peace of mind.
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 per year. An adequately lubricated garage door will function properly for a long time, reducing the risk of premature mechanical failures.
8. Give your appliances some TLC
To extend the life of your rental property’s appliances, plan for regular upkeep. Simple actions like vacuuming your refrigerator coils and cleaning seals around the doors help this essential appliance work better and improve its longevity.
9. Clean window weep holes
Vinyl windows have weep holes designed to allow water to drain away. These weep holes can clog, however, causing moisture buildup. Flushing your weep holes yearly prevents water and condensation issues, keeping windows in good condition.
10. Check for pests
Annual pest inspections are critical. Carefully check your property for signs of pest infestation, especially for termites. Small infestations can escalate quickly, turning a minor issue into a costly, disruptive problem for you and your tenant.
Rather than tackling these time-consuming maintenance tasks on your own, consider hiring experts. Real Property Management Dynamic offers comprehensive property management and maintenance services provided by local experts in Vero Beach and surrounding areas. With our help, you can be confident that essential maintenance tasks are handled consistently and professionally. For details, contact us online or call 772-251-1169 today.
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