Being a landlord is a very rewarding career. But, without the help of professional property management companies, it’s not easy. It takes a lot of responsibility and organization to maintain a rental property.
To start with, you need to know the local ordinances about building codes and landlord duties. Then, you need to make sure the property has running water, trash receptacles, and other necessary utilities.
It may be your responsibility to maintain certain appliances and common areas, too. And, to ensure these requirements are met, you’ll need to make immediate repairs as needed.
But don’t worry. You’ll learn everything you need to know about rental maintenance from this guide. Read on to discover more.
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Check Local Building Codes
Before anything else, you need to know which landlord duties are required in your local area. Start by researching building codes. Typically, you’ll be responsible for:
- Removing/replacing outdated, unsafe building materials (lead paint, asbestos)
- Fixing leaks and other natural property damage
- Removing toxic black mold and other infestations
- Providing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
- Ensure adequate wiring, plumbing
Additionally, you must also make sure that the tenant takes care of their rental upkeep responsibilities. For example, they may need to pay utility bills and ensure that maximum occupancy is not exceeded.
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Provide Necessary Utilities
Landlords aren’t usually required to pay for building utilities like water and electricity. But you do need to make sure that the plumbing and electrical wiring remain functional in your rental properties.
You must also make sure that your tenants have trash receptacles that are approved by the local trash service. In some locations, landlords are required to provide heating and cooling as well.
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Maintain Appliances and the Property Exterior
If you do need to provide heating and cooling, you must maintain the HVAC systems of your rentals. Specifically, get professional HVAC maintenance each spring and fall. And make sure your tenants change the air filters as needed.
Likewise, you should get your roofs/chimneys inspected and your gutters cleaned yearly. If you provide dishwashers, washers/dryers, and/or any other appliances, maintain these, too.
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Make Repairs Immediately
Instruct tenants to report any problems with the property/appliances right away. Once reported, arrange to have these problems fixed within two business days.
Aside from general repairs, some issues require emergency attention, including:
- Wiring/electrical issues
- Sewage backup
- Broken/frozen water pipes
- Fire/flood damage
- Break-ins/broken locks
- Gas leaks
- Heating/cooling issues (if a required landlord duty)
Before these disasters happen, choose emergency repair services and keep their contact information handy.
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Don’t Forget About Common Areas
Some rental properties provide common areas for all tenants to use. These may include clubhouses, outdoor parking areas, pools, and laundry buildings.
You must make sure these areas stay in good repair as well. Also take care of security considerations, like keeping these areas well-lit.
Let Property Management Companies Help
Lastly, if all this rental maintenance is too much for you, get help. Property management companies will handle as little or as much as you need them to.
To get started, contact Florida Long Term Rentals now. We have over 10 years of coastal property management experience and are eager to meet your needs.
