As the days get warmer and longer, there are things you should do to make sure your property remains in good condition through the warmer months. (not that the weather has been great this spring but hopefully we’ll get back to normal soon). Not only will regular maintenance prevent costly problems at your property, but it keeps the place in great condition so you can attract and keep quality renters.
Clean gutters
Not only is blocked gutters a roof leak hazard, in summer, it can be a fire hazard too! If your property is in a high-risk area, make sure the gutters are cleaned. Any build-up of leaves, sticks and other dry plants and debris can be a fire hazard and block drains. You can make sure your gutters are clean by getting your property manager to check them at your tenant’s next routine inspection (by looking from the ground / a ladder isn’t something that fits in our cars) or by organising a professional to clean the gutters.
Tidy gardens and outdoor areas
The warmer weather is a great time to tidy up your gardens. Make sure mulch is refreshed (helps keep the moisture in for plants), weeds are taken care of, and the watering system (where applicable) is working. You should also check if outdoor living areas need any maintenance or repairs before it’s used more often over the summer.
Plan for next year
Many rental agreements finish at the end of the year or the beginning of the following year. If you’d like your current tenants to renew their lease, talk to your property manager now to get a new agreement organised (that’s if your property manager hasn’t already sent through a rent review / begun that conversation). This is also a good time to check in with the tenants and see if there are any repairs or maintenance needed as sometimes, renters just keep things to themselves when it doesn’t directly affect them (Even though it might actually affect the property)
Run through the list above with your property manager to ensure everything is in working order at your property before summer. A little time spent on odd jobs now can lower the risk of more costly problems in the future, plus you can enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind knowing that your property is in good shape.
Remember, this article is general in nature and is not financial or legal advice. Please consult your professional financial and legal advisors before making any decisions for yourself.