Being a good landlord requires strong attention to detail and an understanding of home maintenance. As a landlord, you need to make sure that the rental space is properly cooled and heated, and updated in terms of electrical codes. Furthermore, you must ensure that the pipes, drains, toilets, sinks, and other such features are kept in strong working condition.
Address Issues Immediately
While the occasional clogged toilet is typically no cause for alarm, you also should not allow issues to fester. For example, a sink or bathtub that won’t drain is generally a sign of a larger problem. If the toilet isn’t flushing on a regular basis, there’s possibly an issue with the pipes. When your tenants say that there are problems with these features, listen to the requests. Keeping a clear record of such issues can help you to identify patterns and repeated problems.
Call a Professional
You might be able to resolve some minor issues with a clogged drain or leaking pipes. In many cases, however, plumbing problems require the guidance of a professional. Calling a plumber can help you to get the problem resolved in an efficient and proper manner. Sometimes, do-it-yourself projects only exacerbate the issue. Further, the plumber can help you to determine the root cause of the problem.
Plan for Major Repairs and Renovations
If your rental property is old, then the pipes, drains, toilets, and other related features might be as well. Some issues constitute emergency situations, and you’ll need to take care of extensive repairs right away. With other problems, though, you may have some time before you need to make these major adjustments. Now is the time to start putting money aside for such projects.
Stock Supplies
Situations are going to arise that you can tackle independently. However, you need to have the right supplies available. Now is the time to stock up on drain openers, plungers, and other such tools that can help you to resolve a more minor issue. Depending upon the type of property that you own, you can consider leaving these tools in a central area for tenants to access if necessary.
Taking care of issues related to sinks, toilets, showers, and pipes is a responsibility that you have as a landlord. Make sure that you’re seriously considering and addressing any concerns from tenants and that you’re putting money aside to cover the costs of major repairs.