If you’re a property manager or owner, you know how important it is to keep everything running smoothly. Dripping faucets, broken air conditioning units, and so on – property maintenance services are important not just for the health of your tenants but for the longevity of your investment. Whether you’re working with apartments, single-family homes, or a commercial property, regular maintenance keeps your property in top shape and your tenants happy.
In this article, we take a closer look at what property maintenance is, why it is so important, and some of the key property maintenance services that you should maintain throughout the year.
What is Property Maintenance?
Property maintenance is the regular work and repairs done to keep a property in the best working order. It could be as easy as fixing a machine to inspect the pipes, to making sure it is secure and presentable to the residents. Property maintenance can be proactive (fixing problems before they arise) or reactive (fixing problems after they arise). It’s just making sure the property is secure, clean, and in good working order for the residents.
Why Property Maintenance is Important
There are numerous advantages to holding properties, both to you as a property owner and to your tenants. Here’s why access property management is important:
1. Avoiding Greater Issues
Routine property maintenance services enable you to catch small problems before they become big, expensive ones. For example, if you notice a small leak in a pipe, you can fix it early on before having to incur expensive water damage in the future.
2. Safety of Tenants
Whatever it is – making sure the smoke alarms are functioning or verifying that the stairs are secure – routine maintenance avoids accidents and ensures your tenants’ safety.
3. Property Value Increase
A property that is well-maintained is more attractive to potential renters and buyers. By keeping the property well-maintained, it will be in good shape and appreciate in value, so it can continue to rent for a good sum or sell for more money in the future.
4. Happy Tenants
When tenants see that you’re taking care of the property, they’re more likely to stay longer and take care of it. This translates to happier tenants and better tenant retention, which is great for your rental income.
5. Saving Money
While property maintenance services are an upfront cost, it can pay for itself in the long run by erasing the expense of expensive repairs. Everyday examples include routine maintenance on your heating and air system, which can keep your system running at its best, saving you money on bills and preventing expensive breakdowns.
6. Risks of Property Maintenance
Whereas property maintenance is essential, it does have a couple of issues:
7. Costs of Regular Maintenance
Property maintenance is costly, particularly if professionals are doing it. It is something that homeowners will have to pay for regularly.
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If you are having maintenance done by a third party, you may not feel like you have as much authority over the way things are done. This can be prevented, however, by finding a good service provider and communicating with them accordingly.
Multi-Purpose Maintenance Services to Execute All Year Round
Keeping your property in good shape is a year-round job. Here are some key property maintenance services to handle throughout the year to keep your property safe and comfortable for tenants:
1. Inspect HVAC Systems
Your cooling and heating systems must be checked periodically to make sure they’re working properly. Have the heating system checked in the fall and the cooling system in the spring to prevent failure when the weather gets extreme.
2. Maintain Plumbing
Plumbing issues can be such a pain. Leaks or clogs can be spotted early with constant checks before they cause expensive damages like water seepage or mold formation. Maintain your pipes in excellent condition throughout the year.
3. Test Electrical Systems
It’s mandatory to check the electrical system for safety and in proper working order. Malfunctioning wiring can cause fires, so it should be checked annually by a certified electrician.
4. Appliance Care
Ensure that you clean and inspect common appliances like dishwashers, washers, and refrigerators. Regular cleaning keeps them longer and in good working condition for the tenants.
5. Air Filters
HVAC air filters need to be replaced or inspected at regular intervals. Cleaned filters decrease efficiency and increase energy costs.
6. Windows and Doors
Make sure there are drafts, leaks, and proper seals on doors and windows. This is what makes the building energy efficient and the tenants comfortable
7.Roof Inspection
Your roof should be inspected once a year to make sure it is not harmed. A tiny leak can develop into a major one if not repaired in its time.
8. Test Smoke Alarms
Smoke detectors are lifesavers. Make sure they work and have fresh batteries, checking them once a month, and replacing batteries annually at least.
9. Clean Gutters
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, and as such need to be cleaned regularly, especially before and after heavy rainstorms or snowmelt.
10. Exterior Safety Inspections
Outside areas also need to be checked for potential hazards such as sidewalk cracks, loose railings, or lack of lighting. All areas should be safe to accommodate tenants.
Seasonal Property Maintenance Checklists
To make property maintenance simpler, you can split the work seasonally. Here is a simple checklist to be adhered to by each season while property maintenance services:
Spring:
- Inspect cooling systems.
- Inspect plumbing for leaks.
- Replace and wash air filters.
- Inspect doors and windows.
- Clear yards of winter debris.
Summer:
- Clean and inspect appliances.
- Monitor air conditioning systems for efficiency.
- Perform electrical system checks.
Fall:
- Verify heating equipment.
- Test smoke alarms.
- Clean the gutters before winter.
Winter:
- Look for frozen pipes and avoid freezing.
- Inspect the roof for any damage.
- Perform an outdoor space safety check after snow or storms.
Conclusion
Routine maintenance on your property is key to keeping your investment in top-notch condition, your tenants happy, and your property secure. By keeping things up, you can prevent expensive repairs, eliminate potential safety hazards, and increase the value of your property in the long term. Property maintenance services are also a great way to build trust and satisfaction with your tenants so they feel secure and comfortable in their home.
With HomePro PPM, you can leave the stress of property maintenance to us. Our skilled professionals will maintain your Tampa rental properties in top shape all year round, promoting higher tenant satisfaction, protecting your investment, and saving you time and money.
