Hello World! Welcome Friends! If you’ve never rented out a property before, the tasks in front of you can seem fairly daunting. You’ll have to make sure the property is safe and functioning well, as well as try to find tenants who won’t cause you headaches. Many of these tasks can easily be overlooked. So, as new landlords, make sure you keep this detailed checklist with you every step of the way.
Inspect the Roof
One of the most important elements of a house is the roof. Even small leaks can lead to structural damage and mold if gone unnoticed. This may have been included in the initial inspection before you bought the property. But if you’ve since had storms or the inspection wasn’t thorough, it’s still a good idea to check. Check under the eaves, around the ceiling, and in the attic for signs of old and new leaks. You might also choose to have a professional roofer inspect it before you move people in. They can perform minor repairs or replace the whole roof if needed. If replacing it is necessary, consider a long-lasting material like Everdrain for a more attractive and durable design.
Clean the Property
Of course it goes without saying that you should make sure the interior of the home is as clean as it can be. (This can be done by yourself or someone you hire.) But what you also need to know is that you are responsible for making sure the exterior is safe and clean, as well. Make sure there are no dangerous objects on the property. Mow and trim trees. Once the tenant moves in, it’s common to turn this responsibility over to them. But in the beginning, these tasks should be done by you.
Inspect the Plumbing
Another primary responsibility all landlords have is making sure the plumbing is functioning properly. First, turn on all the faucets to make sure they work and provide adequate pressure. Check for leaks under sinks and behind toilets, and allow a few gallons of water to drain to make sure there are no clogs. If you do find issues or just want a professional to take a look, choosing a plumber should be your next step. And it’s a good idea to find the right one from the start because you’ll need one that you can count on should any future problems arise.
Make Sure the Home is Safe
Landlord responsibilities under the law vary quite a bit from state to state. But one thing remains consistent no matter where you live — maintaining a safe environment. And while the criteria for this can be somewhat vague in landlord guidelines, you can usually use common sense to decide what is required. One of the best ways to do this is to put yourself in your tenant’s shoes. What basic amenities would you want in your home to keep your family safe?
At minimum, the home should have locking doors and windows. They should also be well-sealed to prevent water or wind damage. In addition, it’s a good idea to install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home. It’s highly recommended that you purchase landlord insurance in case of damage to the property or other issues you may face.
Choose the Right Tenants
Finding the right tenants to live on your property isn’t always an easy task. But if you screen each applicant thoroughly, you’ll be much less likely to run into problems. Of course, the key to getting the most out of your screening process is to identify your criteria from the start. And most seasoned landowners agree that there are a few traits that most good tenants have in common. For one thing, they usually bring in an income of at least three times the amount of their rent. They also usually have decent credit scores and clean criminal histories.
Click the links below for any posts you have missed:
Learning the Basic Principles of HDB Interior Design is Essential to Try your Hand at It
5 Amazing Interior Design Secrets
5 Easy Tips to Buying a New Home
Is There a Prime Age to Buy your First House?
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