Do you want fewer headaches, lower costs, and happier tenants? It all starts with a strong maintenance schedule. Think of it as your secret weapon to stop small problems from turning into major disasters.
Whether you manage one unit or a dozen, keeping your property in top shape is easier than you think.
We’ll walk you through what to do, when to do it, and how to stay ahead of the game. Ready to take control and protect your investment? Let’s get started.
Hunt Down Common Problems
Do you want your tenants to stay happy and safe? Then, keep an eye out for maintenance issues before they grow teeth. Check those heaters, AC units, pipes, and electrical systems often.
Don’t overlook fire safety and pest control as well. Monthly smoke alarm tests and yearly fire extinguisher checks take just minutes but could save lives.
Pests, on the other hand, need more of a ‘keep them out before they move in’ approach. A bit of prevention will stop cockroaches and rodents from treating your place like an all-you-can-eat buffet.
As for appliances, make sure they get regular attention. This way, they will not only last longer but also use less power, which is great for your wallet and our planet.
Break Your Tasks Down
If you’re trying to do everything all the time, you’ll burn out before your hot water system does.
Instead, divide your tasks into logical timeframes (weekly checks, monthly inspections, or yearly assessments) to make everything more manageable. For example, you should test smoke alarms weekly, but plumbing systems only need a monthly check.
Your service history can reveal patterns that will help you spot potential problems. This will allow you to address these concerns early, preventing serious complications and saving money.
And never underestimate your tenants. They live with these quirks day in, day out. So, if they mention noises, odd smells, or flickering lights, listen to them.
Go Digital
Digital tools can completely transform how you handle property upkeep. They give you access to automated notifications to make sure nothing falls through the cracks, no matter how busy you get.
You don’t even have to be tech-savvy. Simple apps like Google Calendar and Trello offer automatic reminders, instant alerts, and detailed reporting features.
If you’re more of a visual learner, create colour-coded calendars that clearly display the difference between urgent repairs and routine care. It’s a good idea to share schedules with your teams and contractors as well to improve coordination.
The best part about online reporting systems is that they let occupants submit issues right away, so you can fix problems faster and spot recurring ones.
Not to mention, going digital means no more drowning in paperwork. Just make sure all parties know how to use these tools.
Assign Responsibilities
Even the best plan can fall apart if everyone assumes someone else will do it. However, when your team members understand exactly what they’re accountable for, this will leave less room for confusion and boost productivity.
So, create detailed duty charts that list specific tasks, deadlines, and the equipment each person needs.
Just don’t forget to provide training so everyone can complete their chores safely and effectively.
Remember, communication is the glue that keeps it all together. Whether you prefer quick email updates, a group chat, or a weekly catch-up, keep your team in the loop about what’s working, what’s not, and what has cropped up unexpectedly.
That way, issues won’t sit quietly in the background until they explode into expensive disasters.
Opt for Maintenance-Friendly Renovations
Smart renovation choices can significantly reduce your future workload. When you’re refreshing your rental unit, think beyond just the looks and factor in durability.
Looking for flooring that can handle splashes? Vinyl and ceramic are your best bets in wet areas. They shrug off moisture that hardwood and carpet can’t handle. Plus, they withstand the parade of renters moving in and out over the years.
For your kitchen counters, go for materials that resist both stains and scratches. Quartz particularly shines in the durability department. It doesn’t require fussy maintenance steps, unlike marble and granite, which constantly need sealing.
Using identical fixtures across your properties will make repairs simpler as well. When all your units have the same faucets and hardware, you’ll find that servicing is more streamlined and less expensive.
While you’re at it, think ahead. Features like lever handles or wider doorways might not seem urgent now, but they’ll make life easier for more people and save you hassle down the line.
Finally, we recommend going for modular components. These allow for partial replacements when damage occurs, saving you both time and cash.
Budget for Maintenance Costs
Nothing can put a damper on your plans faster than an unexpected repair bill. One minute you’re sipping coffee, and the next, you’re forking out thousands because the hot water system decided to retire early.
Start by looking at what you’ve spent in the past to set a ballpark for what’s normal. And once you have a solid idea of your typical spending, set aside an emergency fund for surprises. This will help you prevent further damage and keep your tenants happy.
Most property experts suggest allocating about 1-2% of your rental’s value each year for maintenance costs, which is a good rule of thumb that works for most properties.
Don’t forget that most property servicing qualifies for tax deductions as well, so keep detailed records.
Make Vacate Cleaning a Breeze
Move-out inspections can get heated fast. To avoid these disagreements, your lease should clearly spell out whether the renters should handle cleaning themselves or if vacate cleaning services are a must.
If they’re in charge, give them a detailed checklist, so things like skirting boards, window sills, and oven trays don’t slip through the cracks. And be realistic: ‘clean’ is different from ‘brand new.’
However, if you’re arranging cleaners, explain upfront how the cost will affect their deposit.
Last but not least, before you start dipping into their bond, always give your tenants a chance to fix anything you’ve flagged. It’ll keep the process fair, cut down on disputes, and make moving out a whole lot less stressful for everyone.
Conclusion
A clear upkeep schedule means fewer surprises, less stress, and fewer calls from panicking tenants at 2 a.m. Over time, these small, regular checks you make will save you from major headaches.
So, don’t wait for things to break. Put a plan in place, stick to it, and make maintenance part of how you do business.