A lot of Harrisburg rental property owners feel that the list of maintenance tasks their rental needs seems long. While it would be fine to miss a few things sometimes, there are other maintenance tasks you should be doing every year to avoid problems. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can not only lead to decreased tenant satisfaction but big repair bills down the road. Doing just these ten maintenance tasks will save you from many headaches along the way.
1. Change Your Filters
Furnace filters need to be changed regularly and correctly. Clogged filters are the cause of poor indoor quality and can also decrease the life of your rental property’s furnace.
2. Clean Your Dryer Vent
Did you know that clothes dryer vents are among the leading causes of residential fires in the U.S.? This is one maintenance task you must not overlook. A clogged dryer vent can not only be a fire hazard, though. It can also cause unwanted pests and mold problems.
3. Relight the Pilot Light
If your pilot light is usually turned off during warm months, you must relight it and check the system for proper functioning long before cold weather arrives. Your tenant won’t enjoy sitting in the cold, waiting for you to fix the furnace.
4. Drain Sediment From Your Water Heater
Over time, sediment can collect at the bottom of water heaters. To extend the life of your rental property’s water heater and ensure that it is working properly, be sure to drain it once a year.
5. Look for Leaks
It sounds simple, and it is. Once a year, do a thorough visual check of your property’s plumbing, fixtures, sprinklers, and so on. If you find any signs of leaks or pooling water, have them addressed immediately.
6. Change Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries
Check the batteries in your rental property’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace them once a year. It is neither wise nor safe to wait for the unit to fail and start beeping. Your tenant will appreciate not having to deal with that hassle.
7. Lubricate Garage Door Springs
Lubricating the springs and wheels of your rental property’s garage door at least once a year will keep the garage in good condition. A properly lubricated garage door will serve you well for many years, while a neglected door will break down long before it should have.
8. Give Your Appliances Some TLC
Doing basic maintenance on your rental property’s appliances every year will extend their life. For example, if you vacuum the refrigerator coils and clean the seals around the doors, this essential appliance will work better and last longer.
9. Clean Window Weep Holes
Many vinyl windows have to weep holes that help drain away water and condensation. But these holes can sometimes be clogged with dirt or insects. Flushing out the weep holes once a year will help keep condensation and moisture problems at bay.
10. Check for Pests
Finally, you should also check your property for signs of pest infestation every year. Termites can start as a small problem. Left unchecked, it could become a nightmare for you and your tenant.
Property maintenance is a necessary, yet often time-consuming part of owning rental properties. Why not let the professionals handle it for you? Real Property Management Experts offers a full range of property management and maintenance services provided by expert Harrisburg property managers, giving you total peace of mind that essential maintenance tasks are being done every year. Learn more by contacting us online or calling at 704-220-0110.
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