Prioritizing routine repairs at your Oakland rental property will minimize the emergency repairs you have to make. Preventative and proactive maintenance will always cost less than an emergency response. You’ll pay your vendors less, you’ll reduce the inconvenience imposed on your tenants, and you’ll protect the condition of your investment. Deteriorating rental homes rarely earn top dollar, and they often have high turnover and vacancy rates.
Budget for the routine repairs that are necessary, respond immediately to tenants when they submit a maintenance request, and pay attention to the common maintenance issues that pop up in rental homes, such as water leaks and roof repairs.
Respond to Tenant Maintenance Requests
You should have a system in place for reporting and responding to maintenance requests. Make sure your tenants understand how to contact you when a routine repair is needed. You might consider asking for the repair request in writing. This will allow you to document when the maintenance was requested. A timeline of work and follow-up can help you stay organized and keep an accurate log of the work your property has needed.
Respond right away. Let your tenants know what the plan is, and whether they can expect a vendor at some point or if the vendor will be contacting the tenant to coordinate times and dates for the repair.
Routine Maintenance to Prevent Water Damage
Water and moisture will cause more damage to your property than anything else, and it is important that you’re always looking for potential leaks and moisture. Even a minor drip that goes unaddressed can lead to a plumbing disaster that includes rot and mold.
Routinely check for leaks under sinks, and check ceilings and walls for discoloration or damp surfaces.
Checking ventilation should be part of every rental property inspection. If a tenant reports a problem with the plumbing, respond immediately. You don’t want to leave water problems unresolved. Remember to clean out the gutters when necessary and check your irrigation system.
Roof Repairs are Routine Maintenance
Routine roof inspections are also an important part of maintenance and can help you save on unnecessary repair costs.
If your property is surrounded by trees, you’ll want to check and clear the roof several times a year. You’ll also want to trim back branches that may get too close to power lines. You also don’t want branches, leaves, and debris to gather on your roof or in your gutters. Hire a professional to trim back branches on a regular basis so they don’t interfere with the wires or with your property’s roof.
Make sure the landscaping isn’t creating a safety hazard. Overgrown bushes in front of the house can block windows, leaving tenants vulnerable. Make sure there is plenty of exterior lighting and keep the outdoor spaces free of weeds, branches, and debris. Invest in pest control services as part of your routine maintenance plan to avoid infestations.
Routine HVAC Inspections and Services
One of your most expensive systems is the heating and cooling in your rental home. In Oakland, the climate will require your tenants to use both the heating and the air conditioning. So, it’s important that you keep your systems maintained, especially if you want to increase the lifespan and save yourself money.
Schedule annual visits from an HVAC technician to check your system. Prevent expensive emergency repairs by having the entire system inspected, cleaned, and maintained regularly.
Make sure your tenants know to change the air filters regularly. Not only does this protect your property; it also keeps their energy costs lower and provides better air quality for their home.
Paying attention to routine maintenance saves money and increases the value of your investment. If you have any questions about maintenance or anything pertaining to Oakland property management, please be sure to contact us at California Pacific Realty.
