What to Look Out for During a Preventative Maintenance Walkthrough of Your Rental Property
San Diego landlords are often asking me about what they should look for when they’re conducting periodic walk-throughs at their investment property. Today, we’re offering some tips and advice.
Property Management San Diego: Review Your Documentation
First, acclimate yourself to the property before you do a walk through. Re-read your lease and make sure you know what it includes. Remember the names of your tenants. Check to see if you can expect to find any pets at the property. Look through the initial condition photos you took prior to the tenant taking possession of the home. Check other condition statements as well.
Investing in San Diego: Know Your Tenants and Pets
When your tenants give you access to enter the property, remember which tenants are on your lease. If someone lets you in who you don’t recognize, it may indicate there’s a guest staying at the property, or an unauthorized tenant has moved in. Take note of who is there.
You also want to check for any evidence of unauthorized pets. If there is not a pet listed on the lease, and you see scratching on the back of walls or doors, or you notice pet feces in the yard or food and water bowls scattered around, these things may indicate there’s an unauthorized pet at the property.
San Diego Investment Property: Safety Issues
Next, check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Look under the sinks at your angle stops and supply lines. You should do this in the bathrooms and the kitchen. Check to make sure that everything is operating effectively. Note any corrosion or signs of swelling at the supply lines. This might indicate a potential leak, which you’ll want to take care of immediately. Track any preventative maintenance items that need attention.
Finally, go on the record and ask your tenant if there are any maintenance issues they have not reported. Sometimes, tenants fear getting a rental increase when they report maintenance, so they delay doing it. Ask your tenant. It’s a sign of good faith, and it shows you’re invested in the property and in your tenant’s satisfaction.
If you have any questions about your San Diego rental property or you need help with San Diego property management, please contact us at Good Life Property Management. We manage single family homes, condos, and small apartment complexes.
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Steve Welty
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