Things Are Heating Up: Summer Maintenance For Your Rental

As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, it’s a sure sign that summer is right around the corner. That means it’s the perfect time for property managers to tackle their summer maintenance checklist. With the proper planning and preparation, you can ensure that your properties are in top shape and ready for the warmer months.

In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to tackle your essential summer property management tasks. We’ve got you covered, from inspecting your properties for necessary repairs or maintenance to ensuring that your landscaping is in top shape. By following our tips, you can provide your tenants with a safe and comfortable living environment while also protecting your investment.

Five Tasks to Get Your Property Summer-Ready

As a property manager, staying proactive and preparing your properties for the summer season is important. Here are five maintenance tasks that landlords should consider as they get ready for summer:

Inspect and Service Air Conditioning Units

Air conditioning units become crucial to any property manager’s summer checklist as the weather gets warmer. Inspecting and servicing these units is essential to ensure they function at their best, providing optimal cooling and energy efficiency. Neglecting to service your air conditioning units can result in poor air quality, higher energy bills, and even system failure.

Regular inspection and servicing of air conditioning units can help catch potential problems early on, such as leaks, clogs, or faulty components, before they escalate into more significant issues. A well-maintained unit can also extend the system’s lifespan and prevent unexpected breakdowns, saving property owners from costly repairs or replacements. Additionally, a properly functioning air conditioning unit can improve indoor air quality, reducing the risk of health issues and providing a comfortable living environment for tenants.

Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Checking and cleaning gutters and downspouts should be a top priority on every property manager’s summer checklist. Heavy winter storms and spring rains can clog gutters and downspouts with leaves and other debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can seep into the foundation of your building, causing water damage and even mold growth. Regular cleaning of gutters and downspouts ensures that water can flow freely away from your building, preventing damage to your roof, walls, and foundation. In addition to preventing property damage, regular cleaning of gutters and downspouts can also improve the curb appeal of your property, making it more attractive to potential tenants.

Service and Inspect Swimming Pools

A well-maintained pool can provide tenants with a fun and relaxing summer activity while also increasing the value and appeal of your property. Regular pool maintenance can also prevent costly repairs and ensure the pool is safe and comfortable. Inspection and servicing of a swimming pool can include checking and adjusting the pH and chlorine levels, ensuring that the filtration system works properly, and inspecting the pool for leaks or cracks. Neglecting to service and inspect a pool can result in algae buildup, bacterial growth, and potential health hazards for tenants. Additionally, a poorly maintained pool can damage the property’s value, leading to a loss of tenants and revenue.

Check and Repair Window Screens

As the weather warms up, tenants are likely to open their windows to let in fresh air, making it essential to ensure that all window screens are in good condition. Window screens serve as a barrier to keep insects and other pests out of the property while allowing fresh air to circulate. Damaged or missing screens can not only allow unwanted pests in but also pose a safety hazard, especially for young children who may be at risk of falling out of windows.

Checking and repairing window screens before summer can prevent such issues, ensuring that the screens fit tightly and are free of any holes or tears. Property managers should inspect all screens, replacing any damaged or missing ones and repairing any minor damages. This simple maintenance task can not only improve the safety and comfort of your tenants but also prevent potential damage to your property caused by pests or weather conditions. Don’t overlook this simple yet essential maintenance task as you prepare your properties for summer.

Trim Trees and Bushes

Overgrown trees and bushes can cause several issues, such as obstructing walkways and blocking natural light from entering the property. Additionally, overgrown trees and bushes can pose a safety hazard, especially during severe weather conditions, as branches may fall and cause property damage or harm to tenants. Regular trimming of trees and bushes can improve the overall appearance and safety of the property. Property managers should prioritize trimming any trees or bushes that are obstructing walkways or windows and remove any dead or diseased branches to prevent them from falling. Pruning also encourages healthy growth, ensuring that the trees and bushes remain manageable and don’t cause further issues.

Get Started on Summer Maintenance Today

Preparing for summer is an essential task for property managers to ensure the safety and comfort of their tenants and the longevity of their properties. Regular inspection and maintenance of air conditioning units, gutters, pools, window screens, trees, and bushes are crucial to prevent damage, maintain curb appeal, and provide a pleasant living or working environment. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can result in costly repairs, loss of tenants, and even pose safety hazards. By prioritizing regular maintenance and inspection, property managers can prevent these issues and provide their tenants with a safe and enjoyable summer season. Don’t wait until it’s too late – start preparing your properties for summer today!

If you live in the Portland metro area, Rent Portland Homes by Darla Andrew is ready to assist property owners with summer maintenance tasks. We’re a full-service property management company with decades of experience helping owners and investors get the most from their rental homes. If you’d like to learn how we can help, call or text us today at 503.515.3170 or fill out our contact form on our website. We can’t wait to chat!