Tips for rental property maintenance

When it comes to rental property maintenance, a stitch in time really does save nine.

A well-maintained rental home not only attracts the best tenants and secures the highest possible rent, it also goes a long way in preserving the capital value of your asset and ensuring it appreciates over time.

Jill Lloyd, from Lew Geffen, said that a lack of upkeep and regular maintenance is not only costly down the line when avoidable major repairs are required, it can also be downright dangerous.

“At the very least, tenants should have the right to request an electrical compliance certificate, especially if they have small kids where earth leakage is vital.”

Jenna Pietersen, from Lew Geffen, said that regular maintenance is critical in attracting quality tenants, especially in a slow market.

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“Prospective tenants are spoilt for choice at the moment and properties that are well-maintained and visually appealing will always have the edge.”

She said that, at the very least, landlords should give their properties a fresh coat of paint, especially after a long-term tenant has vacated, and ensure the garden is neat and tidy and all the fittings and fixtures in the house are neat and in working order.

“As with a car, you have to keep your hand on it, otherwise small issues add up and you’ll paying way more towards maintenance than necessary in time.”

She offered landlords tips for remaining on top of their maintenance and reducing the risk of major repairs:

• Schedule regular property inspections and maintenance to keep the property in the best possible condition. This way, even if your tenants haven’t reported a problem, you will still find it before it’s become a big, expensive issue;

• Ensure the contractors you use are qualified to carry out the work and are registered with the relevant association for their trade. Where possible, obtain guarantees for work done and if it’s a large project, withhold 10 per cent of their final invoice until you’re satisfied the work has been completed to your satisfaction;

• Forward plan when you renovate to minimise the cost and time of repairs. For example, when renovating a bathroom, make sure working facets are easily accessible for repairs by not installing cisterns concealed behind walls and shower tiles.

• Check the property is watertight by checking for any loose or missing roof tiles, gaps in the brickwork, window and door frames, anywhere water could penetrate. Have the gutters and drains cleared and make sure all the guttering and downpipes are in good condition.

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She added that landlords should also bear in mind that if they show they care for their property by providing good quality finishes and fittings and maintain the property well, tenants will generally take better care of it and treat it more as their own.

• Information supplied by Private Property.

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