Tips to help landlords in Uganda keep properties properly maintained

You want the most return on investment for your property. This means keeping your rental property occupied with good, reliable tenants. One of the ways to do this is with preventative maintenance. Not only can this help keep tenants happy, but it also helps you by potentially avoiding larger, more costly issues down the road. And, when you take these steps to keep your property in good condition, your tenants will also be more motivated to do the same. Tenants are likely to follow the example you set.

If an unexpected issue pops up and your tenant needs to call you for a maintenance issue, make it a priority to respond with haste. You want your tenant to know you care about resolving the issue. Plus, as mentioned above, this helps keep the issue from growing into a bigger one. It’s a good idea to handle issues within 24-48 hours and to let your tenant know that you’ll be coming on the property. If it’s a more immediate need, you may have to come on the property sooner. Just make sure all of this is outlined in the lease and that you follow any housing or state laws regarding this.

While some maintenance calls can’t be avoided, you can lessen the last minute maintenance issues by doing some preventative work. It’s important to do inspections (at least yearly) to check over the property and see if there is anything that needs to be fixed. If your property is currently leased, make sure to let your tenant know well in advance before coming on the property. There are a few things that should be looked at as part of this preventative maintenance routine.

Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working

One of the easiest checks you can do is to simply make sure that the carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are in working condition. If not, then you’ll want to replace them.

Look for violations to the lease

As you scan the property look for any lease violations, such as smoking, that could cause damage to the property. This will need to be addressed if so.

Scan for water drips and leaks

Check the property for water leaks. You can look by windows, on ceilings and walls, under sinks and by toilets to see if there is any sign of problems. Also, check to see if faucets are dripping or if the toilet keeps running. Not only can water leaks lead to larger issues, but they can also be an added expense to your water and sewer bills.

Update worn caulking

When you’re in the bathroom and the kitchen, make sure to check the caulking around the sink and tub. If the caulking is looking old and worn, it’s time to give it a refresher. It helps improve the seal and give it a nicer appearance.

Look for pests on the property

Check the property for any sign of pests as you walk throughout. If there’s a bug or rodent issue, then you’ll want to get help immediately to resolve the problem. A small issue can become a larger one quickly, and could spread to other properties if it’s a multi-unit building.

Check for cracks in the walls

As you walk through, you’ll also want to see if you notice any cracks that need to be patched in your drywall. This can be an easy repair that gives the property an instant update.

Make sure locks are in working condition

Don’t forget to check the locks on the windows and doors of the property to ensure everything is working correctly. You want to ensure your tenant’s safety is a top priority.

Maintain (Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) HVAC systems

HVAC systems (Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) also need to be maintained. Filters should be replaced, ideally, every three months. However, at least twice a year is a good idea. You should consider also having a maintenance person check the efficiency of your HVAC system every year to make sure it’s working correctly.

Drain water heaters

Water heaters also have maintenance needs, since, over time, sediment can build up. It should be drained twice yearly. This will help the water heater continue to do its job efficiently and will help keep the water clean from debris.

Do some outdoor maintenance too

You’ll also want to make sure the outside of the property is well-maintained. The roof should be checked periodically to make sure there isn’t any damage that needs to be repaired. Gutters should be cleaned regularly and, if you’re in charge of landscaping, trees need to be trimmed back, especially before storms and winter weather. You don’t want any branches putting your tenants or your property in harm’s way.

Check common areas

Lastly, if you have multiple units on the same property with common areas like walkways and stairways, make sure everything is maintained professionally. Tenants should have good lighting, sturdy handrails and safe walkways to use on the property.

Taking preventative maintenance measures can help keep tenants happy, improving your retention rates and also reduce the risk of more expensive issues down the road. It’s a win all around.

If you need help maintaining and managing your property, contact us at Spectrum real estate solutions: . We’d be glad to assist you.