As the famous saying goes, prevention is better than cure. This also applies to your rental property and protecting it from damage (and hefty renovation costs). To maintain a safe, long-lasting, and profitable asset, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Take photos
Aside from doing a comprehensive entry inspection, make sure to take good photos of your property. This gives you a visual reference to the physical state of the property before your tenant moves in. Once it’s time to do an exit inspection, photos are crucial in comparing the before and after. Having photos on record also keeps the tenant aware of what they’re moving into, and how the property needs to look once they move out.
Screen tenants thoroughly
Before you let a stranger move into your property, a proper tenant screening is key to avoiding potential damage. Look out for any red flags in their tenancy records particularly about damage to previous rentals or criminal behaviour.
Put care instructions in writing
Once your tenant moves in, you can only do so much to protect your home from damage. The next best thing? Brief your tenant on your home maintenance guidelines. Walk them through each item and leave a printed copy as their reference.
Wooden floorboards? You can opt to add a special clause to your lease to include care instructions, such as asking tenants to use felt protectors under furniture and taking off their high heels when inside.
Inspect Regularly
Whether monthly or quarterly, make sure to regularly check in with your tenants and do a detailed routine inspection on your property. Major repairs in homes usually start small like a leaking faucet, a crack in the wall, or early signs of termites. Keep a regular watch on these potential issues and nip them in the bud so you can be spared from more expenses and inconvenience in the long run.
A professional Property Manager is your best ally in maintaining your property so you can keep reaping the rewards of your hard-earned investment for years to come. A top-rated property management firm like Rental Results can assist you in protecting your property from damage – and more.
If you want to know more about working with a Property Manager in Brisbane, drop us a line at https://www.rentalresults.com.au/contact/.
