🧰 Property Maintenance 101 – What Every Owner Should Know
A Landlord’s Guide to Smooth Rentals – Post 3
One of the biggest factors in a rental property’s success is how well it’s maintained. That doesn’t mean just when something breaks.
At Green Door, we’ve seen firsthand that a strong maintenance plan is one of the best ways to protect your investment, keep tenants happy, and avoid expensive surprises down the road.
Let’s break down the basics.
🔧 Preventive vs. Reactive Maintenance
Reactive maintenance is what most people think of. When something breaks, you fix it.
But preventive maintenance is the real difference maker.
Instead of waiting for problems to appear, preventive care involves:
- Replacing air filters regularly
- Flushing water heaters
- Checking HVAC systems seasonally
- Caulking and sealing to prevent water damage
- Cleaning out gutters before storms
- Trim trees & bushes away from structures
These small, affordable tasks can prevent much larger (and more expensive) repairs. Doing so will extend the life of your property’s systems.
Think of it like oil changes for your house.
💰 Budgeting for Upkeep
We always recommend landlords set aside a maintenance reserve each month.
Here’s a simple formula:
- 1–2% of the property value annually
- Or, $50–$200 per unit per month, depending on age and condition
This gives you a cushion for both expected & unexpected expenses and allows repairs to be handled quickly, without the stress of scrambling for funds.
Pro tip: Keep a small emergency reserve separate from your regular maintenance fund for big-ticket surprises like HVAC replacement or roof issues.
📅 Seasonal Tasks to Stay Ahead of Repairs
Every season brings its own maintenance checklist. Here are a few examples:
Spring:
- Check for winter damage
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Test irrigation systems
- Inspect the roof and siding
Summer:
- Service HVAC system
- Look for signs of pests
- Trim trees and shrubs away from structures
- Inspect for signs of moisture or mold
Fall:
- Clear leaves from drains and gutters
- Replace filters and check smoke detectors
- Prep plumbing for freezes (especially in vacant units)
- Inspect windows and seals
Winter:
- Keep pipes insulated
- Watch for ice buildup
- Ensure heating systems are running efficiently
- Check for drafts or energy waste
Why This Matters
Good tenants want to live in a home that’s well taken care of. Quick, quality maintenance builds trust and encourages lease renewals.
And for you as the owner? Proper maintenance protects your property’s value and prevents stress-filled emergencies.
Don’t Want to Keep Track of All This?
That’s what we’re here for. At Green Door RES, LLC, we handle all of this with systems in place for regular inspections, qualified vendors, and a focus on prevention.
Your property stays protected, your tenants stay happy, and you stay out of the stress zone.
