For rental property owners, year-round property maintenance is important. Not only to keep your property in top shape and protect your investment but also to ensure that you attract and keep good renters. Having an organised property manager is vital, as your property manager will be aware of how changing seasons mean checking different aspects of the rental property.
Here’s a rundown of what property managers are likely to check at the beginning of each season.
Autumn property checks
Autumn is the best time for your property manager to get in touch with the renters in your property to ensure that there are no leaks that could cause problems with mould and moisture inside the home.
This is also a great time to ensure that any built-in heating is working correctly to get prepared for the colder weather. Plus, your property manager will check the hot water system ‒ also a good idea at this time.
Your property manager will also have a chat with the renters to ensure that they understand the importance of ventilation, even in the colder weather as this avoids moisture build-up in the home.
If the home does have a problem with moisture inside that could cause mould, your property manager might advise you or your renters to install a dehumidifier in order to solve the problem of moisture and damp.
Winter property checks
At the start of winter, it’s important for your property manager to check that smoke alarms are working correctly, especially if the home has an open fire or wood-burning stove.
It’s also a great time for your property manager to touch base with the renters to advise them on how they can manage draughts to keep the home more comfortable and cosy.
Another aspect to check is that the gutters are clear in case of any large downpours. If gutters overflow during the colder months, it could increase the possibility of damp inside the home.
Spring property checks
As spring comes along, it’s time to get the garden in order. Your property manager will check that the gardens are kept neat and tidy and that the lawn is being mowed regularly.
This is also the best time to ensure that air conditioners are working effectively and to encourage renters to make sure that they clean the filters on exhaust fans and the rangehood. If the home has ducted heating, the filters on this also need to be cleaned.
Summer property checks
As summer approaches, it’s a good idea for your property manager to check if the flyscreens are in good condition and that the home is secure. This is important because many people tend to go away over the Christmas period and home security is vital during this time.
An empty home can be a prime target for thieves during this season so it really does pay to make sure that all the door and window locks are in good order and working correctly. It might also be wise for your property manager to be in contact with renters to check whether they plan to be away for any period of time. This means that regular security checks can be made to ensure that the property is safe.
Summer is also a good time to look at pest control as insects and rodents are more active during this time. Plus, it’s vital to ensure that the home is fire-safe. This includes ensuring that roofs and gutters are free from leaves and other debris.
We know that summer temperatures can soar in Swan Hill and with that comes the danger of fires. Apart from keeping the gutters clean, it’s also important to remove any other fire hazards such as fallen tree branches and large tree branches that overhang the house itself.
Can we help with your Swan Hill home?
We’re fully aware of the different maintenance problems that can arise in the different seasons and how to avoid them to eliminate the need for expensive repairs. So, why not give us a call on 03 5032 2507. We’re here to help.
