Rental Property Repairs: 5 Best DIY Tasks Landlords Should Learn

If you're a landlord, it's a good idea to know how to make repairs at your property. Here are some top rental property repairs that landlords should know.

Rental Property Repairs: 5 Best DIY Tasks Landlords Should Learn Close
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Rental Property Repairs: 5 Best DIY Tasks Landlords Should Learn

Posted by Gary Ashton on Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 at 3:28pm.

DIY Repairs to Know How to Do as a Landlord

Being a landlord can be a lucrative and rewarding endeavor, but it comes with serious responsibilities. Before you can become a successful property owner, there are some basic do-it-yourself tasks that you should master to simplify your experience. Understanding these five essential DIY tasks allow landlords to maintain their rental properties and provide timely maintenance service, which is one of the top tenant retention tips. You don't have to be an expert on all of these topics, but having a basic understanding will help you save time and money whether you have one tenant or manage multi-family properties.

Appliance Troubleshooting

If you're dealing with a broken appliance, don't panic - troubleshooting it can be easier than you think! Start by finding the user's manual if you have one, as this will provide instructions on how to diagnose and fix the issue. If you don't have the manual, search online for instructional videos that offer helpful guidance. It's sometimes as simple as a reset or minor component replacement.

Since some repairs may require you to replace the faulty component, you might need assistance with moving the appliance into a position that gives you access. Don't hesitate to ask for help when necessary! Nobody should attempt a risky repair alone, so if the appliance is too heavy or there are components involved that you don't feel safe performing, it may be worth phoning a friend or enlisting the help of a professional.

Interior & Exterior Painting

Painting your rental property's interior and exterior can be a great way to refine your maintenance skills and is a simple task to master. Additionally, if you're looking for rental renovations to boost income, painting can be a great place to start. Before you start painting, it's important to do some research on the different types of primer and paint that are suitable for use on your property. Also, take advantage of instructional videos on how to properly apply them.

Additionally, make sure you have all the necessary tools, such as a paint roller, brush, painter's tape, extension pole, paint tray, and drop cloths. Having these items handy will help ensure that your job is done quickly and efficiently.

Make sure you prep each surface before applying any primer or paint by filling in any cracks or holes with spackle or caulk and sanding down any rough patches. Once everything is clean and smooth, it's time to roll out your drop cloths and begin working!

Finally, don't forget about the importance of proper clean-up after completing the job. Make sure you dispose of all excess materials in an environmentally friendly manner. Take special care when discarding paints or solvents that could be hazardous if not handled correctly. All in all, interior/exterior painting can be a rewarding experience when done right, so don't hesitate to give it a try!

Basic HVAC Maintenance

How to Maintain an HVAC System

Regular maintenance, such as changing or cleaning filters and oiling fan motors, can help prevent costly HVAC breakdowns, so it's important for landlords to stay up-to-date on how to handle HVAC system maintenance. For example, cleaning refrigerator coils is an easy task that should be done at least once a year to ensure they are working properly. If you have a gas furnace, replacing the thermocouple or heat sensor when needed will help keep your pilot light lit. In addition, regular filter changes are essential for maintaining healthy air quality in your rental property and ensuring optimal performance of your heating or cooling system.

Finally, if you find yourself faced with major repairs due to HVAC system malfunctions, it's best to contact a professional for assistance immediately. By following these basic maintenance tips and consulting with experts when necessary, landlords can save money over time while providing tenants with comfortable living conditions all year round.

Pest Control

Taking on pest control duties yourself can save you time and money, but it's important to research the most effective methods and use the right traps, baits, sprays, and sealants. Some of these tools include traps for rodents, bait to attract bugs, and caulk for sealing access points. It is also important to note that not all products are equally effective in eliminating pests, so research what works best in your area.

Pest prevention and control are key to keeping your residence free from pests without spending too much money on professional exterminators. In some cases, however, certain pests require more intensive approaches, such as termite treatments. These should be handled by experts who know how to properly eradicate them without causing further damage or health risks. Therefore, it's best to have an experienced exterminator assess the situation if anything seems beyond your DIY comfort level.

Overall, having a basic understanding of pest control is essential if you want to become a successful landlord. By learning how to identify potential infestations early on and keep up with regular maintenance tasks like sealing access points and using appropriate traps/baits, you can make sure your property remains pest-free without incurring hefty expenses.

Fire Safety Checks

Keeping your rental property safe from fires is one of the most common home safety hazards to protect against and is as easy as taking a few simple preventative steps. First, it's important to install smoke and fire detectors in all the rooms of your unit. You should also check their functionality regularly. Additionally, inspect the premises for any signs of electrical issues that could potentially lead to sparks. In gas-powered units, it's essential to check for gas leaks too.

To further protect tenants in case of an emergency, make sure they have a well-defined fire escape plan and understand basic fire prevention tips. Installing escape ladders for upper stories can be incredibly helpful if there's no other way out during a fire outbreak. Providing fire extinguishers in the unit is also beneficial; these safety measures don't require special tools and can be completed within an hour as part of a comprehensive fire safety check.

Know When to Make Repairs Yourself

Taking care of these simple DIY tasks before becoming a landlord not only helps keep you compliant with legal requirements but also provides added security for both yourself and your tenants. Being equipped with the ability to handle common maintenance issues saves time and money, fosters a sense of self-reliance, and empowers landlords to provide prompt solutions for their tenants. From basic appliance fixes to painting, investing the effort to learn these skills will undoubtedly pay off in the long run. By taking the initiative to expand their DIY repertoire, landlords can confidently handle various repair and update tasks, ensuring the smooth operation of their properties and the satisfaction of their tenants.

 

Gary Ashton

The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage

The #1 RE/MAX team in the World!

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