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Owning an investment property in Portland comes with its perks, from the city’s thriving rental market to the laid-back Northwest vibe that tenants love. But like any property owner, landlords here face risks from natural disasters that can threaten not only their investment but also the safety of their tenants. Whether it’s preparing for earthquakes, winter storms, or fire risks, a little disaster preparedness goes a long way in keeping your property and tenants safe. Here’s a guide with straightforward tips for Portland landlords looking to protect their rental property from the unexpected.
Address Structural Issues
Have you heard about “The Big One”? While we all hope the Cascadia Subduction Zone quake won’t happen for a while yet, there’s no doubt that Portland sits in a seismically active zone. By taking some time to embrace proactive earthquake safety measures, you can ensure your rental property can stand up to a little shaking.
Start with a detailed analysis of your property’s structural integrity, especially if it’s an older building. Oregon’s “soft story” buildings, which have open ground floors (often with parking), are particularly vulnerable. Consider retrofitting if necessary. Reinforce your property’s foundation and, if you haven’t already, secure larger fixtures like water heaters and shelving to prevent tipping or breaking. Retrofitting may be an investment, but it increases the property’s value, boosts tenant safety, and gives peace of mind in case of a quake.
Install Seismic Shut-Off Valves on Gas Lines
Gas leaks are a major concern during earthquakes, but installing an automatic seismic shut-off valve can reduce the risk significantly. This valve automatically stops gas flow in the event of a strong shake, minimizing the risk of explosions or fire. Some insurance companies offer discounts for these upgrades, so it’s worth checking with your provider. In Portland, it’s an easy preventive step for disaster preparedness and could be a selling point for prospective tenants who value safety features.
Check and Clear Drainage Systems
Portland’s rainy season is no joke, and with that comes the risk of flooding. Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water pooling on your roof or near the foundation, increasing the risk of interior damage. Schedule regular inspections and cleanings, especially when leaves clog drainage pipes in the fall. A local landscaper or handyman can do this affordably, and it’s a small investment for the peace of mind that your property is as flood-resistant as possible.
Create a Fire Preparedness Plan
Forest fire season has become a regular part of life in Oregon, and fires can quickly spread even in urban areas during particularly dry summers. Equip your property with working smoke detectors (it’s required by law), and consider adding fire extinguishers in accessible spots, like kitchens and hallways. Encourage tenants to report any issues with these devices and make it a habit to test and replace smoke detector batteries during your regular inspections. Share evacuation routes with tenants and remind them of basic fire prevention, like properly disposing of cigarette butts and maintaining clear exit paths.
Don’t Skimp on Insurance Coverage
When it comes to insurance, it’s essential to be thorough. Portland landlords should look beyond basic property insurance and consider earthquake, flood, and fire coverage, depending on the property’s location. Review your policy annually to ensure your property is adequately covered for potential disasters. Keep in mind that renters’ insurance isn’t legally required, but strongly encouraging tenants to purchase it is a smart move. Renters’ insurance covers tenants’ belongings and can also include liability protection, so it’s a win-win for everyone involved.
Explore Backup Power Options
Winter storms can leave properties without power for hours or even days, and for rental properties, this can lead to some unhappy tenants. While installing a permanent generator may not be feasible, a backup battery or portable generator can offer some reassurance. These solutions keep essential systems running, like heating, in the event of a prolonged outage. If you’re renting out a multi-unit property, a backup generator is even more useful since it can maintain heating for shared areas.
Strengthen and Secure Outdoor Features For Winter
Winter storms and high winds in Portland can turn unsecured items into projectiles that damage property or injure someone. Anchor any outdoor furniture or decor, and ensure that fences and sheds are reinforced to survive the winter. During high winds, a little effort here can prevent a lot of headaches later.
Emergency Supplies and Tenant Communication
While much disaster preparedness falls on you as a landlord, encouraging tenants to be prepared can go a long way. Consider providing tenants with a basic checklist of items they should keep on hand in case of an emergency, such as water, personal flashlights, blankets, and first-aid supplies. Remind them to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and the location of emergency kits, and if you have an online tenant portal, include this information there as well.
Every rental should have an emergency supply kit on hand, particularly for situations where tenants might have to shelter in place. A kit should include water, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food items. Oregon’s unpredictable winter weather can lead to power outages, so the basics are essential for tenants’ comfort and safety. While it might not be your duty to assemble an emergency kit yourself, you can certainly encourage your tenants to do so.
Establish a Post-Disaster Protocol
If the worst happens and your property experiences the effects of a disaster, having a protocol in place can streamline the recovery process. Identify local contractors and service providers you trust so that you have reliable people to call when needed. Develop a protocol for communicating with tenants post-disaster so they know what to expect and when repairs will happen. After all, communication is key during emergencies, and tenants will appreciate clear updates and the reassurance that you’re handling the situation.
Planning for Peace of Mind
Natural disaster preparedness in Portland is about proactive, not reactive, strategies. Taking these steps means that when the unexpected happens, both you and your tenants are better equipped to handle it. In addition to taking steps to keep your property secure in a disaster, staying on top of your regular seasonal maintenance is another great way to keep your rental ready for anything. If you’d like to hear about how Rent Portland Homes Darla Andrew’s Office can keep your rental in top condition without you lifting a finger, give us a call at (503) 515-3170 or contact us through our website.
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