Key Summer Property Maintenance

Proper maintenance helps keep your tenants satisfied by minimizing the need for frequent repairs, which can be seen as intrusive and time-consuming.  When a rental property is well-maintained, it not only reduces the costs of repairs but it can shows your tenants that you care for their well-being as well.

Below is a short list of important summer maintenance items to do before it gets too hot.

Inspect Rain Gutters

During the summer, rain gutters should be inspected and cleaned of dry leaves and debris that may have fallen into them during the spring and winter. These materials can accumulate, which, when left unchecked, can block water from passing through the gutters. Though more importantly, it can hold humidity, which can lead to damage and early signs of failure. Additionally, having large amounts of decomposing leaves can bring with it pest infestations, as many insects live and breed in decaying organic matter. 

Landscaping Maintenance

Plants tend to grow the most during the spring, meaning that during summer, you’ll have to trim and reshape hedges and trees. Proper landscaping helps prevent damage to the property from rogue branches and other debris. It also helps tenants enjoy the outdoor space safely with fewer tripping hazards, such as leaves and sticks, while improving curb appeal. Trimming the landscaping also reduces the amount of maintenance needed throughout the years while also reducing fire hazards. As summer brings with it the start of the fire season in Southern California

Test Batteries and Smoke Alarms

Smoke detectors are incredibly important to the safety of your tenants. While they can be annoying in some cases, ensuring that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work properly can save tenants from injury or worse. During summer, the use of air conditioning and fans raises power consumption, which in older homes with older wiring can increase the risk of an electrical fire. Ensuring batteries are fresh and the alarms work correctly protects your tenants and your investment. 

Pest control

Being proactive with pest control is incredibly important for your tenants’ satisfaction. Summer brings with it an increase in insects such as mosquitoes, cockroaches, and flies, as well as other pests like mice and rats. A simple, yet effective way to get ahead of the pests is to inspect window and exterior door screens. Screens allow for fresh air circulation while preventing flies, moths, and mosquitoes from entering. Seals around doors and windows prevent cockroaches and spiders while preventing cold air from escaping. If necessary, consider hiring a professional to inspect for other potential entry points for larger pests like mice and rats.

General Inspection

Summer weather is ideal for doing property inspection, the dry conditions allow for easier access to roof tops and other outdoor systems. Inspections help to identify problems early, allowing for timely repairs and reducing future costs of expensive fixes. As an example, roofs on average have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. However, if debris or pests have compromised the integrity of the roof, it can cause leaks. Roof leaks can be an incredibly expensive repair if left unchecked, as water can seep into the walls, rotting structures, and cause the growth of mold and mildew.

Additionally, consider inspecting appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, washers, and dryers regularly. As proper appliance functions reduce tenant complaints, it also reduces the costs for repairs down the road.

Maintaining your property is more than just making sure your property is taken care of. Proper maintenance can increase lease renewals while reducing turnovers. It also helps your property stand out as a well-maintained property generally has positive curb appeal. If you need a hand with summer time maintenance or you need help managing your Beach City rental property, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our Owner Application online.