Maintaining Let Properties

a Guide for landlords

At HomeForce Property Management we believe that timely and proactive maintenance in rental properties is essential for both tenant satisfaction and protecting landlord’s investment.

Addressing issues promptly can save landlords from costly repairs, legal issues, and tenant turnover. Here, we explore the importance of maintaining rental properties and provide best practices that we follow to ensure smooth operations.

Why Timely Maintenance is Crucial in Rental Properties

There are several reasons why maintenance and repairs should be handled promptly. At HomeForce Property Management, we implement a written Service Level Agreement to ensure maintenance is dealt with effectively. Here’s why timely action is key:

  • Legal Compliance with the Repairing Standard

    • Under the repairing standard, landlords are legally required to properly maintain their rental properties. Failure to do so can result in serious consequences, such as tenants lodging complaints with the First-tier Tribunal. These complaints can lead to legal penalties, making it essential to stay on top of all necessary repairs.

  • Cost-Effective Property Management

    • While paying £100 to £200 for a repair may seem unappealing at first, ignoring the problem can result in much higher expenses down the line. A minor issue that could be fixed easily can escalate into a major repair that costs thousands if left unchecked.

  • positive tenant relationships

    • Attending to repairs and maintenance issues quickly sends a message to tenants that you care about the property and their well-being. In contrast, neglecting maintenance may cause tenants to care less about the property, potentially leading to additional wear and tear. When they eventually move out, you may face a long list of repairs, delaying the time it takes to get the property back on the market.

  • reduce vacant periods

    • By maintaining the property proactively, tenants are more likely to stay longer. They’ll be reluctant to leave a well-maintained property for a rental where the landlord may not be as attentive. Additionally, when a property is maintained regularly, it’s much easier to prepare for a quick turnaround between tenants, reducing rent void periods.

    The Importance of Regular Maintenance Inspections

    Even though tenants may appreciate prompt attention to repairs, they won’t always report maintenance issues right away. That’s why we believe regular maintenance inspections are vital. Scheduling routine inspections ensures that any unnoticed or unreported issues are addressed before they become significant problems. We keep detailed records of each inspection to document compliance with maintenance requirements.

    Responding Reasonably to Maintenance Requests

    When a tenant reports an issue, it’s important to act quickly, but that doesn’t mean the problem must be fixed immediately. For example, if a boiler breaks down on Christmas Eve, and all gas engineers are unavailable until well after Boxing Day, it’s understandable that repairs may take some time. As long as the landlord or agent acts without unnecessary delay, they are fulfilling their duty.

    It’s important to note that landlords are not obligated to rehouse or compensate tenants due to breakdowns like a boiler malfunction or a collapsed ceiling. The key is to act swiftly and reasonably, given the circumstances.

    Key Considerations for Maintenance in Rental Properties

  • Emergency Access to the Property:

    • A landlord or their representative can only access the property without the tenant’s permission in emergencies. For non-emergencies, such as inspections or routine repairs, proper notice must be given, and tenant consent obtained.

  • Tenant Responsibility for Damages:

    • If tenants are responsible for damage due to negligence or failure to follow instructions (e.g., not reading appliance manuals), they are liable for the repair costs. However, if the issue is due to normal wear and tear, the landlord must cover the repair.

  • Furnishing Considerations:

    • If furniture included in the inventory needs repairs due to regular wear and tear, it’s the landlord’s responsibility to fix it—just as they would repair a door falling off its hinges or a light switch malfunctioning. This highlights the importance of carefully selecting the furnishings for your rental property to minimize long-term maintenance.

  • Light Bulb Replacements:

    • Tenants are typically responsible for replacing light bulbs, whether in extractor fans, bathroom mirrors, or ceiling fixtures. However, landlords should clarify this in the tenancy agreement to avoid confusion.

    Conclusion: Proactive Maintenance for Long-Term Success

    HomeForce Property Management’s approach to maintaining rental properties is not just about avoiding legal repercussions or saving on costs; it’s about creating a positive living experience for tenants that fosters long-term relationships and reduces vacancy periods. By addressing repairs promptly, conducting regular inspections, and setting clear expectations with tenants, we can ensure that Landlords properties remain in excellent condition while keeping tenants happy.

    Want to find out more about HomeForce Property Management?
    Call us today on 0131 315 0000
    Email us on info@homeforce.co.uk or request a call back
    to discuss your Edinburgh Property Management Requirements

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