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In 2020, there were approximately 43 million occupied rental units in the United States. Home rentals are very common, but what exactly goes into managing a rental unit?
To manage a rental unit effectively, you have to stay on top of maintenance. Neglected maintenance issues can result in unhappy tenants and permanent damage to the building.
The following is a list of common rental maintenance tasks. By becoming familiar with this list, you can develop a maintenance plan that works for you.
Water Issues
Renters will often contact their property managers about water issues, such as leaks. Storm events sometimes highlight leaks in the roof of a rental unit, or near the doors and windows. When a renter calls about this issue, it is important to address it right away.
Neglected leaks can result in structural damage to the home. It can also instigate a mold or mildew problem, which can pose health risks. These things are much harder problems to solve than the initial leak.
Another thing that renters often call about is trouble with their water heater. This is something that property managers must address immediately, as it is necessary to provide running water in rental units.
Property managers should make sure that water heaters are inspected routinely. They should also check for leaks around the unit at least once per year.
The Garbage Disposal
Renters often call their landlords when they are having trouble with their garbage disposal. Garbage disposals get clogged when the wrong things go down the drain. Items like poultry bones and spoons can clog or break a rental unit's garbage disposal.
Property managers should be ready to offer routine maintenance to units that have garbage disposals.
HVAC Issues
HVAC issues are very common if regular maintenance isn't performed. Most homeowners are aware that they need to replace their HVAC's air filters and keep the air vents clear of dust and clutter. But many renters have never learned the basics of HVAC maintenance.
This means that the HVAC systems in rental units can clog or break down easily. The property manager should perform annual preventative maintenance on each HVAC unit. This will help property owners avoid bigger problems.
Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarms
Tenants don't always remember to test their carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. That's why it is important for property managers to check them annually.
Every rental unit should have smoke detectors near bedrooms, and at least one on every floor of a multi-story house.
Yard Maintenance
Property managers often work out yard maintenance agreements with their tenants. Sometimes, the property manager is in charge of making sure the outdoor spaces of a unit or building look nice. This can require weekly or monthly maintenance visits.
In addition to regular upkeep, yard maintenance can include special attention to fallen debris after storms. It can also include dealing with snow and ice during the colder months.
Make Rental Maintenance Easy
When you own a rental unit, it can seem like the rental maintenance never ends. That's why it's a good idea to hire property managers who can implement a maintenance plan for your properties.
Our team can help you with that. Reach out to us today to learn about our options and get a free rental maintenance analysis!
