Summer days are starting to cool down, (even if it’s just a degree or two) and nights are almost cool enough to open the windows; both signs that summer is coming to an end soon and fall is on the way.
Before the weather completely changes, get your fall maintenance list out and check some items off your to do list for your rental property. If you’re not sure where to start, below is a simple list to get you going.
Outdoor Maintenance
- Check the Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year; once in the fall and again in the spring. Debris can quickly accumulate in the gutters throughout the seasons, so it’s a good idea to make sure they are cleaned regularly. Be sure to clear out the downspouts, too, to keep water flowing freely and away from the house.
- Trim back dead or overgrown branches
Cut back any overgrown branches that are hanging over the roof or that could fall in a storm and cause damage to your roof, home or other buildings/objects on your property.
- Clear brush, leaves and any fire hazards from property
Be sure to clear all potential fire hazards from your property to create a defensible space. This includes keeping anything that burns easily at least 20 feet from your home or other structures on your property.
- Put away outdoor furniture and seasonal items
Store any outdoor furniture that you want to keep in good condition. Cushions can be placed in plastic bags or storage bins and seasonal items like pool toys, outdoor bbq essentials, etc. should be stored away, as well.
- Replace Outdoor Lighting
Check all exterior lighting including porch lights, flood lights and any fixtures on the garage, shed, or other separate buildings to be sure they are working properly and have fresh bulbs installed. If you have landscape lighting, the wiring and bulbs should be checked there, as well.
Indoor Maintenance
- Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
These devices are so important to our health and safety, but they only work if they are checked regularly. Remove each device to check the expiration date, replace the batteries, and test each one individually. Newer devices come with 10-year batteries that don’t need to be changed, but they should still be tested. Typically, these devices will last 7-10 years.
- Seal all gaps and drafts
Check all windows and doors to be sure that they properly seal and don’t allow any air to seep through. Heat loss through windows can account for up to 35% of your home’s energy so it’s important to make sure this is done before the cold months hit.
- Inspect the HVAC System
In addition to changing or cleaning your HVAC or furnace filters regularly (every 3-4 months), your central air system should be inspected, serviced and cleaned at least twice per year by a professional. Schedule a visit for a tune up to make sure the AC is functioning properly before it gets too cold. Preventative maintenance can save you hundreds of dollars and keep your system running efficiently and effectively.
- Clean out the lint trap
Although tenants should be cleaning the lint trap for the dryer regularly, it’s a good idea to personally inspect it when performing a rental inspection. Doing so can prevent lint from building up and leading to a fire hazard inside the home.
- Have the chimney inspected and swept
If there is a wood burning stove, pellet stove, or gas fireplace in the house that gets used regularly, it’s a good idea to have it swept and inspected professionally once a year. Buildup inside the chimney can cause damage to the unit itself and create poor air quality inside the home. For the best pricing and quick service, try to schedule service in the summer before fall officially arrives.
While maintenance can be a burden for some landlords who do everything on their own, it’s always worthwhile to keep your property in good shape. Just like any other investment, it only works for you if you put time and money into it.
If you have a rental property in the Auburn area and need help managing it, please give us a call. We provide all-inclusive property management services to help ease the burden for investment owners and would be happy to schedule a consultation to discuss your needs.
We service the following areas in Placer and Nevada County: Auburn, Newcastle, Meadow Vista, Colfax, Applegate, Rocklin, Lake of the Pines, Grass Valley, Nevada City, and Penn Valley.
