Preventative maintenance is important for every rental property, but with Hawaii’s unique location and climate, it’s even more important on the Big Island. A good preventative maintenance plan should be part of how you protect your investment property’s condition. It ensures your tenants have a safe and habitable place to live, and it keeps your long term maintenance costs down.
While routine and emergency maintenance issues are usually obvious, landlords often forget that preventative maintenance is just as important. It helps you to extend the life of many of the systems and functions in your property.
These are some of the preventative maintenance tips we have to help you keep your Big Island rental property in excellent condition.
Check for Safety Issues
Safety is always going to be your most important issue when it comes to maintaining your home. Make it a habit to check for working smoke detectors. Make sure every hand rail is sturdy and look for cracks or problems outside on stairs, patios, or driveways. You want to make sure your rental home can withstand disasters like earthquakes and extreme rain. Work with licensed professionals to keep your home in good shape. This is the best way to protect yourself and your tenants.
Make sure you’re prepared for any intense weather. Hawaii doesn’t get hurricanes very often, but as we have learned recently – tropical weather is always unpredictable and possible. Be prepared for storms.
Always Look for Leaks and Water Issues
Hawaii is surrounded by water, and there are many opportunities for it to destroy your rental property. This will often cause more damage to your property than anything else. It’s important that you routinely check for leaks. Look under sinks and check ceilings and walls for discoloration or dampness. Leaks or moisture that go unattended could lead to mold and rot. Make sure there’s plenty of ventilation in your home and that your insulation is working properly.
Check the Landscaping and Trees
If your property is surrounded by trees, there’s a danger that the branches will get too close to power lines. They can also fall onto your roof and cause problems with pests. It’s a good idea to hire professionals to trim back the branches on a regular basis so they don’t interfere with the wires or with your property’s roof. Overgrown bushes in front of the house can also block windows, causing a security issue. Keep all outdoor spaces free of weeds, branches, and debris. Check the exterior lighting frequently and make sure the locks and alarm systems work.
Service Your Heating and Cooling Units
Air conditioning in Hawaii is a bit of a requirement, even with our gorgeous sea breezes. Have your cooling unit inspected annually. Get a technician to visit the home at least once a year to make sure everything is working properly. You don’t want any coils rusting or systems getting clogged. Have the entire system inspected, cleaned, and maintained regularly.
There’s a lot you can do to maintain your home, and preventative maintenance is an important way to save money and increase the value of your investment. If you have any questions about maintenance or
Big Island property management, please
contact our team at Hawaiian Dream Properties.
