Rental property repairs are inevitable. After all, nothing stays perfect all the time–especially when you have tenants coming in and out of your properties. As such, it’s important to recognize the most common rental property repairs and how to handle them so you can stay prepared as a property owner. Today, we’ll review 10 of the most common repairs, who’s responsible for them, and how landlords should handle these types of repairs.
Contents of This Article:
- 10 of the Most Common Rental Property Repairs
- Who’s Responsible for Rental Property Repairs?
- How Landlords Should Handle Rental Repairs
- Let PPM Handle Maintenance and Repairs
10 of the Most Common Rental Property Repairs
As a landlord or property manager in Northern Virginia, it’s your job to ensure your rental properties are in good condition. Not only is this important for tenant satisfaction, but it also helps to maintain the value of each property you own or manage. That said, understanding the most common rental property repairs is key to being a responsible property owner or manager.
Here’s what you’ll want to watch for and maintain to keep your properties in good condition.
- Plumbing Issues
- HVAC Repairs
- Appliance Malfunctions
- Roof Damage or Leaks
- Electrical Problems
- Door and Window Repairs
- Paint and Drywall Maintenance
- Flooring Repairs
- Exterior Issues
- Water Damage
Plumbing Issues
One of the most common issues in rental homes is plumbing, which can mean a number of things. These can include leaky faucets, clogged drains, running toilets, or broken pipes. That said, regular inspections and prompt repairs are vital to prevent these issues from happening or worsening. If these issues go undetected or unrepaired, they can lead to costly water damage and unhappy tenants.
HVAC Repairs
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems require regular maintenance to function properly and efficiently. With different tenants coming in and out of your properties over the years, it’s crucial to watch for malfunctioning thermostats, dirty filters, and broken HVAC parts. These issues can be very inconvenient during cold winters or hot summers.
Appliance Malfunctions
Over time, appliances like refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines may require general maintenance. After all, since they’re used so often, they are prone to more wear and tear. So, ensuring they’re in good working order can prevent unexpected breakdowns and save you money in the long run.
Roof Damage or Leaks
If left unaddressed, roof leaks or damaged shingles can lead to significant water damage. As such, regular roof inspections and timely repairs are essential to avoid costly repairs and protect your property from extreme damage. If you or your tenant notices water stains on the ceiling, dripping water during rain, or musty odors, it’s time to inspect the roof ASAP.
Electrical Problems
Electrical problems are not only inconvenient, but they can also be dangerous. For instance, faulty wiring, malfunctioning outlets, or circuit breaker issues should be addressed immediately to prevent larger issues from happening. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and avoid potential issues before they become significant problems.
Door and Window Repairs
Broken locks, drafty windows, and damaged window screens are common issues that can impact a tenant’s experience at your rental. The last thing you want is for your tenants to be uncomfortable and unsafe. As such, regular maintenance helps ensure doors and windows are functional and energy-efficient.
Paint and Drywall Maintenance
First impressions can mean a lot while touring a rental, and your property’s appearance can sometimes make or break a tenant signing a lease. As such, it’s important to maintain a fresh and inviting living space for your tenants by addressing issues like peeling paint, cracks, or holes in walls. Additionally, repainting and repairing drywall between tenancies helps keep the property looking fresh and well-maintained.
Flooring Repairs
Flooring repairs are another common rental property repair. Whether it’s deeply scratched floors, ripped carpet, or cracked tiles, fixing these issues is crucial to keep your rental well-maintained for each tenant. That said, regular inspections and preventative maintenance can extend the lifespan of your flooring and prevent these issues from happening.
Exterior Issues
While it may not be at the forefront of your mind, curb appeal is a key element of your rental home. If you think about it, the exterior of the property is the first thing a tenant sees while touring your rental. So, to keep your property looking well-maintained and safe, focus on fixing any issues with the siding, fencing, gutters, or landscaping.
Water Damage
Water damage can be extremely detrimental to your property. Whether you’re dealing with leaks, floods, or high humidity, it’s important to address any issues immediately to prevent water damage and mold growth. If there’s mold in your property, it can impact the health and safety of your tenants and lead to an expensive bill to remove it.
Who’s Responsible for Rental Property Repairs?
The responsibility for rental property repairs usually depends on the repair type and the lease agreement terms. For instance, landlords are typically responsible for larger repairs and keeping the property in a habitable condition. On the other hand, tenants are usually responsible for smaller issues, including day-to-day maintenance and minor repairs. Here are a few examples of what a landlord would handle vs. a tenant.
Landlord Responsibilities
- Structural Repairs
- Plumbing and Electrical Systems
- Heading and Cooling Systems
- Appliances Provided in the Lease
- Pest Control
- Common Area Maintenance
- Water and Mold Issues
- Compliance With Building Codes
Tenant Responsibilities
- Day-to-Day Maintenance
- Minor Repairs
- Damage Caused by Negligence or Misues
- Keeping the Property Clean
- Reporting Necessary Repairs
Let PPM Handle Maintenance and Repairs
If you don’t want to handle rental property repairs or maintenance, you don’t have to! Hiring a property management company can allow you to have more free time or focus on other aspects of your rental business. Most property management companies handle all the day-to-day tasks of running a rental–from listing your vacant properties and screening tenants to performing maintenance and inspections.
Looking for a comprehensive company to help manage your tenants and properties? Look no further than Professional Property Management in Northern Virginia. Our team of experts can help your rental business succeed. Contact PPM today to learn more about our services.