Effective property maintenance is essential for managing a successful rental investment. It can help reduce tenant turnover, preserve the value of your property, and ensure compliance with local health and safety regulations.
The following are some tips to ensure you do it right.
Understand the State’s Warranty of Habitability
Chapter 83 Part II of Florida Statutes requires landlords to rent out habitable homes. Among other things, you must ensure the property has hot and cold running water, working smoke detectors, and is free from mold or pest infestations.
You must also maintain the property’s habitability standards by making requested repairs. In Florida, landlords must make repairs within 7 days after receiving proper written notice from the tenant.
Inform the Tenant about Their Maintenance Responsibilities
Repairs and maintenance are shared responsibilities when it comes to a rental property. State law also requires tenants to perform certain duties to maintain the unit’s habitability standards.
In Florida, tenants have the following maintenance responsibilities:
- Keep the unit in a safe and habitable condition.
- Keep the unit clean and sanitary as per the lease.
- Keep the electrical and plumbing fixtures clean and sanitary.
- Use the provided fixtures and appliances reasonably and for their intended purposes.
- Not cause negligent property damage to the unit.
You can let the tenant know of these responsibilities by including them as part of the lease.
Inspect the Property Regularly
You’ll want to inspect your rental property on an ongoing basis. This can help you maintain its value, ensure the tenant’s safety, and prevent potentially costly repairs.
Before inspecting the rental property, make sure to prepare a detailed checklist. The checklist should cover both the interior and exterior of the property.
On the property’s exterior, make sure to cover areas like the roof, landscaping, exterior lighting, siding, and gutters. On the interior, cover things like appliances, heating and cooling systems, and plumbing fixtures.
Document any damage, especially damage exceeding normal wear and tear. Photos and videos are ideal. And if you find any, share your findings with the tenant for action.
Please note, however, that the tenant has a right to privacy. Florida law requires landlords to provide their tenants with an advance notice. It must be at least 24 hours prior.
Rent to the Right Tenant
Everything starts here! You should be intentional with the kind of tenant you want to rent to. The right tenant will not only care for your rental property but will also notify you of issues promptly and pay rent on time, every time.
To land the right tenant, you must have a proper tenant screening process. The screening process should evaluate prospective tenants based on several criteria. Including, the prospective tenant’s creditworthiness and rental background.
Speaking of rental background, determine from prior landlords whether the tenant cared for their rented premises. Specifically, inquire about the following:
- How often did the tenant request repairs and maintenance?
- Did the tenant require any emergency repairs during their tenancy?
- Did the tenant take good care of their premises?
- Was the tenant cooperative and easy to work with during repairs?
- Was the tenant responsible for any damage beyond normal wear and tear at the time of moving out? If so, what kind of damage were they?
These questions can help you gain valuable insights into the tenant’s rental history.
Stay on Top of Seasonal Maintenance
Different seasons are bound to present unique maintenance challenges to landlords. Seasonal maintenance involves tasks that are specific to each season.
Florida has a particularly unique climate. The summers are hot and humid, whereas the winters are mild and pleasant. The following is a seasonal maintenance checklist to help you keep your rental in top condition.
Spring (March-May)
- Inspect the roof for any leaks, damage, or missing shingles.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs.
- Check for termites or pest damage.
- Pressure wash exterior surfaces.
- Service the heating and cooling system.
Summer (June-August)
- Ensure there is proper drainage around the property.
- Inspect the doors and windows for leaks or damage.
- Check for any growth of mold or mildew.
- Service the HVAC system.
Fall (September-November)
- Clean the gutters and downspouts.
- Inspect the roof for any damage after storms.
- Prepare for hurricanes or any tropical storms.
- Prepare the HVAC system for use in winter.
Winter (December-February)
- Check for any leaks in faucets and pipes.
- Insulate exposed pipes if necessary.
- Protect outdoor plants from cold weather.
- Ensure the heating system is working as it should.
Hire a Reputable Property Management Company
Self-managing a rental property can be quite demanding, especially when it comes to managing rental repairs and maintenance. The issues can range from unfamiliarity with common issues to financial constraints, to time management.
Even worse, you may not be familiar with the local habitability laws, as they can be complex and confusing.
Luckily a property manager can sort everything out reliably and professionally. Hiring a good, experienced property manager can almost always guarantee the following:
- Prompt responses to tenant requests for repairs.
- Regular inspections to identify potential problems before they escalate.
- Compliance with local safety, health, and building codes.
- Access to quality services at competitive rates due to established relationships with trusted contractors.
- Available around the clock to handle emergencies such as leaks, power outages, or security breaches.
Additionally, a property manager can help you in other areas as well, such as tenant screening, rental marketing, and tenant eviction.
Bottom Line
Proper maintenance of your property is essential for success. Beyond attracting and retaining quality tenants, regular upkeep helps protect and even enhance your property’s value.
For expert assistance with property maintenance or comprehensive property management services, contact Sand Dollar Property Management. We are one of Central Florida’s top property management companies. Reach out today to learn more!
