Being a landlord means having a lot to do on your plate. A lot of people who’ve never worked in this line of business often think the job of a landlord is to sit at home, cozily raking rent money his way. The truth can be quite different however, as there are many small tasks that need the attention of a landlord, otherwise the rental property may indeed suffer serious issues. The following tips will give you the basics of what you can expect when it comes to maintenance:
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Exterminate!
You don’t have to think twice when it comes to pests and insects of all sorts. You know they’ll be a problem the moment they show up, so you must make sure you keep them contained and eliminated as quickly as possible, before they spread to the rest of the property or other homes or apartments. You should leave the task to a professional exterminator checking for any signs of pests on a three month period just in case.
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Water damage checks
You should check for leaks on a rainy day at best, as this will allow you to see the leaks happen in real time, giving you a chance to note where they are for future fixes. You could also do that when the snow and ice of winter start melting and giving way to spring thaw. You should make sure you check any weak spots around roofs, walls and ceilings. You can also look under the sinks and water heaters for any possible leaks. The damage from humidity and water logging can be catastrophic, depending on the nature of the home itself, so pay heed to the signs at all times.
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Check the grout and caulking
As time goes by, the grout between bathroom and kitchen tiles will crack, thus allowing moisture to sneak in and under the surface. You should always make sure you fix any holes or cracks by replacing the entirety of the grout and caulking in the affected area, so you will prevent possible water damage.
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Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
These devices must be checked on a regular basis to ensure they are in working order and capable of protecting the home in question. You should set up a testing schedule, such as the beginning of each month or the day of rent collection to inspect them. You should never underestimate the importance of these detectors, as they save lives and help prevent damage to the property and legal action. Detectors have lifespans, however, such as five years for CO detectors and ten years for smoke detectors, so change them if necessary.
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Changing air conditioning filters
You should make sure you do that as well on a semi-annual basis. This will help keep the system working at top efficiency, saving money and the health of your tenants. Regular check-ups and replacements will ensure the air ducts are not contaminated, keeping them free from debris and insects.
