According to Investopedia, landlords spend around 1% of the property value each year on maintenance costs.
That can become a big expense and reduce your rental property’s returns. In Memphis, landlords handle most general property maintenance because the law often requires it to keep homes safe and livable. Many property owners take on this role without much help.
Still, tenants also have roles in keeping the property in good shape. They can handle small tasks and help prevent larger issues from building up. Working with tenants can lower costs and make upkeep easier.
A clear plan protects your investment. Keep reading to learn how tenants can support your maintenance efforts and what they are expected to do.
Cleaning and Daily Upkeep
Basic cleaning may seem insignificant, but it is crucial to tenant maintenance responsibilities. Clean kitchens and bathrooms help prevent:
- Mold
- Bad odors
- Stains
- Water damage
Regularly emptying trash, wiping counters, and vacuuming keep the space healthy. Clutter can hide damage, making it harder to spot problems early. When tenants keep areas tidy, inspections and repairs become easier.
Proper use of appliances also helps them last longer. Tenants should avoid overloading machines or pouring grease down drains. These simple habits protect your rental property and cut down on costly repairs.
Tenants who care about upkeep show respect for your investment. Good cleaning routines support a safer, cleaner home for everyone.
Reporting Problems Promptly
Even if your tenants don’t handle repairs, they still need to report problems immediately. Small issues like leaks, cracks, or pests can grow worse if not caught early. A simple drip today can lead to water damage tomorrow.
Tenants who report issues help you address problems before they escalate. It keeps costs low, boosts ROI, and protects your property. Good communication is part of the renter maintenance guidelines.
Make it easy for tenants to contact you. Give them a number to call or a form to fill out.
Remind them during move-in and send follow-up notes. Tell them what to look for, like:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Flickering lights
- Cracks in walls or floors
- Leaky faucets
- Burnt-out light bulbs
- Unusual smells from vents
When tenants feel heard, they report issues, helping both parties. If you live far away from Memphis, handling repairs and talking to tenants can be tough. You may miss signs of damage or get reports too late.
In this case, think about hiring a professional property management company like Reedy & Company. We make it easier to manage maintenance, repairs, and talk with tenants when you’re not nearby.
Handling Lawn and Outdoor Spaces
As a landlord, your lease agreement may include care of outdoor areas such as:
- Mowing the lawn
- Pulling weeds
- Trimming small bushes
- Sweeping patios
- Cleaning gutters
- Removing trash from yards
The goal is to ensure tenants understand their responsibilities for maintaining these spaces. When tenants manage these tasks, it lightens your maintenance responsibility and lowers costs. Clear tenant obligations in maintenance help keep your rental property in good shape.
Remind tenants of their duties during move-in and regular check-ins to enforce this lease clause. Inspect the outdoor areas often and follow up on any issues quickly. Holding tenants accountable helps you maintain a well-kept property and safeguards your investment.
Trash, Recycling, and Pest Control
As a landlord in Memphis, you might underestimate the importance of proper trash management. However, full and overflowing bins attract bugs and rodents. They cause a foul stench that spreads across your property.
These issues can make your property appear unkempt and may drive some tenants away. You can avoid this by making sure your lease agreement covers trash management and pest control. Tell your tenants how to properly dispose of trash.
Clear rules help keep your property clean and safe. When tenants follow these guidelines, pest issues become less common. Good communication about trash and pest control protects your investment and keeps tenants happy.
Respecting Shared Amenities and Spaces
Some of the shared amenities and spaces your rental property might offer include:
- Laundry rooms
- Gyms
- Lounges
- Parking areas
- Mailrooms
These spaces often face faster wear and tear, as many tenants use them daily. Some tenants may vandalize out of frustration or carelessness. Repairing damage in shared areas can be costly, forcing you to allocate additional funds for maintenance.
Working with tenants helps prevent these problems. Set clear rules for using shared spaces and encourage tenants to report damage early. Remind them to clean up and respect the property.
Your tenant maintenance responsibilities include caring for these common areas. Active participation from tenants keeps shared spaces in better condition for an extended period. The teamwork keeps your property safer and saves money on repairs.
Seasonal Preparations and Safety Checks
As a landlord, you may need to winterize your rental ahead of cold weather. Still, your tenant has important rental property upkeep duties to handle, such as:
- Sealing windows
- Checking smoke alarms
- Replacing filters
- Clearing gutters
- Bringing in outdoor furniture
- Dripping faucets during freezes
Memphis weather changes quickly, especially during winter and storm seasons. Your tenant can keep drains clear and protect outdoor items before storms. Dripping faucets can help avoid pipe damage in freezing temperatures.
Your lease may list other seasonal chores tenants are responsible for. Staying alert to the weather and checking the home often helps avoid costly repairs.
When tenants follow these steps, they protect your property and save you money. Clear communication regarding tenant maintenance obligations simplifies winter preparation for everyone.
General Property Maintenance: Essential Tips for Landlords
Effective general property maintenance ensures your rental remains safe and appealing. It covers tenant care, shared spaces, and outdoor areas. Clear rules help tenants understand their role.
When tenants work with landlords, properties stay in better shape. Early action can avoid costly repairs and keep tenants happy.
At Reedy & Company, we know how to support landlords with property upkeep. Established in 2002 in Memphis, we bring over two decades of expertise. We manage more than 3,500 properties for owners from here and beyond.
Our local knowledge and experience help us guide landlords well. Let us handle your property management needs so you can focus on growing your investments.
