Searching for information on Maintenance Issues in Rental Properties? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
Maintaining rental properties can feel like a game of whack-a-mole—just as one issue is resolved, another pops up. While maintenance is part of the job, many common problems are preventable with the right proactive approach. Here are the top seven maintenance issues property managers face and tips on how to avoid them.
About Maintenance Issues in Rental Properties
Dripping faucets, leaking pipes, or faulty toilets are among the most common and costly maintenance issues. Left unaddressed, they can lead to mold and water damage.
Prevention: Schedule annual plumbing inspections. Encourage tenants to report leaks immediately and consider installing leak detectors under sinks and near water heaters.
HVAC Problems
Heating and cooling systems work hard year-round, and when they break down, it’s a major inconvenience for tenants—and a big expense for owners.
Prevention: Arrange seasonal HVAC tune-ups (spring and fall). Replace filters regularly and educate tenants on basic HVAC care. Keep a service log to track equipment age and performance.
Pest Infestations
Rodents, roaches, and ants can quickly turn a rental into an uninhabitable space if not caught early.
Prevention: Conduct routine inspections, especially in basements and kitchens. Seal cracks and entry points. Offer pest control services on a regular schedule and respond quickly to tenant complaints.
Roof and Gutter Damage
Clogged gutters and neglected roofing can lead to leaks, interior damage, and expensive structural repairs.
Prevention: Clean gutters at least twice a year and after major storms. Inspect the roof annually for missing shingles, soft spots, and other signs of wear. Use drones or professional services for large or multi-story properties.
Electrical Issues
Old wiring, overloaded circuits, or broken outlets aren’t just inconvenient—they’re safety hazards.
Prevention: Hire licensed electricians for regular safety checks. Upgrade older electrical systems to meet current codes, especially in properties built before 1980. Encourage tenants not to overload outlets.
Appliance Failures
Refrigerators, washers, and dishwashers all have limited lifespans. Unexpected breakdowns lead to tenant frustration, Maintenance Issues in Rental Properties and repair bills.
Prevention: Conduct routine appliance checks during turnover or inspections. Keep records of purchase and service dates, and replace aging units proactively to avoid mid-lease breakdowns.
Mold and Mildew
Often caused by hidden leaks or poor ventilation, mold can damage property and pose health risks.
Prevention: Install exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Use mold-resistant paint in damp areas. Inspect for moisture during every property visit and respond quickly to water intrusion.
Proactive Maintenance Pays Off
Preventive maintenance not only saves money but also helps to solve Maintenance Issues in Rental Properties, retain tenants, protect property value, and reduce emergency calls. By developing a seasonal maintenance schedule and staying in communication with tenants, property managers can stay ahead of these common issues—and focus more on growing their business than putting out fires.
Need help creating a maintenance checklist for your portfolio? Reach out to our team—we’re here to help keep your properties in top shape.
Learn more about the property management services that we can offer you by calling us at (503) 646-9664 – Talk to a Live Person – Our office answers the phone 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday – or click here to connect with us online.
