When it comes to maintaining a rental property, landlords and property managers are familiar with what needs to be done in terms of regular upkeep. Typically, the landlord will be in charge of handling larger maintenance items like scheduling HVAC service, gutter cleanings, tree trimming, having the septic tank pumped, etc.
What about the more basic maintenance that helps keep the property in good condition and extends the life of the home? Well, that’s where the tenants come in. Tenants should be advised, either during the initial property viewing or during the lease signing, of what is expected of them in terms of upkeep. For the most part, they are responsible for the day to day care of the home. They are also required to notify the landlord of any issues as soon as they come up. Doing so will ensure there is no major damage to the home and no hefty deductions are taken from their security deposit.
We provide renters with a Tenant Welcome Handbook that goes over the care and maintenance of the rental property, issues they may encounter, and troubleshooting techniques that may assist them along the way. This tool acts as a checklist, of sorts, for common maintenance issues and provides helpful reminders for how to stay in compliance with their lease. Most of these items are obvious to a seasoned renter or homeowner, but for those who are not accustomed to caring for a home, they can be a welcome reminder.
Below is a sample Tenant Maintenance Checklist to encourage a successful renter experience in your investment property. If you manage your own rental property, feel free to download a copy of this and use it for your tenants!
Download your copy here: Tenant maintenance checklist
Editorial provided by Jessica Ornelas