Most Decatur rental property owners seem to have an endless list of maintenance tasks related to their rental. Missing a few tasks occasionally may not be a problem, but there are maintenance tasks you should be doing every year. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can not only lead to decreased tenant satisfaction but big repair bills down the road. By completing these ten maintenance tasks, you will save yourself a lot of hassle.
1. Change Your Filters
Make sure you change your furnace filters regularly and correctly. Not only do clogged filters lead to poor indoor air quality, but they also shorten the life of your rental property’s furnace.
2. Clean Your Dryer Vent
Maintenance tasks on your clothes dryer vents must not be overlooked, especially since they are among the top causes of residential fires in the U.S. A clogged dryer vent can not only be a fire hazard, though. It can even cause mold problems and unwanted pests may try to make it their home.
3. Relight the Pilot Light
If you keep your pilot light off during the warm months, make sure you relight it long before the cold weather comes so you can check if the system is still functioning properly. You would not want your tenants to be waiting in the cold while you get the furnace up and running.
4. Drain Sediment From Your Water Heater
It is normal for sediment to accumulate at the bottom of a water heater. To extend the life of your rental property’s water heater and ensure that it is working properly, be sure to drain it once a year.
5. Look for Leaks
It sounds simple, and it is. Do an annual visual check of your property’s plumbing, fixtures, sprinklers, and so on. If there are any signs of leaks or pooling water, have this taken care of immediately.
6. Change Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries
Check the batteries in your rental property’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace them once a year. Don’t wait for the unit to fail and start beeping, your tenant will appreciate not having to deal with a situation like that.
7. Lubricate Garage Door Springs
If your rental property has a garage, it is good practice to lubricate the springs and wheels of your garage door annually. A properly lubricated garage door will work perfectly for many years compared to the short lifespan of a neglected door.
8. Give Your Appliances Some TLC
Your rental property’s appliances will last longer if you do basic annual maintenance on them. Vacuuming your refrigerator coils and cleaning the seals around the refrigerator doors helps keep this essential appliance last longer.
9. Clean Window Weep Holes
Did you know that vinyl windows have to weep holes on their exterior? These help drain away water and condensation. However, if left unattended, dirt or insects can clog these holes. Flushing the weep holes out once a year can help avoid condensation and other moisture problems.
10. Check for Pests
Finally, if it is not yet your regular practice, do an annual thorough check of your property for signs of pest infestation. Termites can start as a small problem. If left unchecked, this can cause a lot of damage to your property and to your tenant’s belongings as well.
Property maintenance is a vital but time-consuming part of owning rental properties. Why not let the professionals handle it for you? Real Property Management North Point offers a full range of property management and maintenance services provided by expert Decatur property managers, giving you total peace of mind that essential maintenance tasks are being done every year. Learn more by contacting us online or calling at 404-341-2102.
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