Andrew-Schultz.com

This is a guest post from the team at RentingYourHome.  RentingYourHome provides quality information to landlords about prospective tenants, and helps landlords screen potential tenants.

Get ready for this spring by tuning up your rental properties! Completing preventative maintenance helps limit surprises and keeps overall operating expenses (and tenant complaints) lower.

• Air Conditioning. Schedule professional service. Check that the unit is still level and clean and has proper clearance. Remove any trees, debris, or trash that obstructs the unit. Adjust the main duct dampers if needed.
  
• Humidifier. If you have a humidifier operating during the winter months, turn the unit off and close the water supply.
  
• Duct dampers. Adjust dampers for a switch from heating to cooling as necessary.
  
• Ceiling fans. Check ceiling fans and reverse fan direction for summer operation.
  
• Roof. Visually inspect the roof for any damage. Trim trees as necessary. Inspect roof vents for damage or bird/wasp nests.
  
• Gutters and downspouts. Clean gutters and make sure downspouts are attached and extended.
  
• Chimney. Visually inspect for any damage to the cap, flash, or masonry. Check for bird/wasp nests.
  
• Exterior of the house. Check condition of paint, caulk and putty. Open outside hose connection shutoffs so you can water the garden, wash the car, etc.
  
• Termites and pests. Schedule professional inspections and service as needed.
  
• Sprinklers / Irrigation. Service and start system for lawn and garden.
  
• Decks. Clean and seal as needed. Normally decks need to be resealed every 3-5 years in order to preserve the wood, look, and protective finish.
  
• Attic. Check for signs of leaks, mildew, or condensation.
  
• Basement. Check for signs of leaks, cracks, movement, rot, or mildew. Consider a dehumidifier. Clean the dehumidifier and start operation as needed.
  
• Sump pump. Test sump pump to make sure it removes water from the hole and discharges water away from the base of the house.
  
• Water heater. Draw sediment from tank as needed.
  
• Refrigerator. Clean coil, clean drain pan, and check drain.
  
• Range hood. Clean filter and wash fan blades.
  
• Bathroom exhaust fans. Clean grill and fan.
  
• Bathroom tile. Check grout, caulk, and tile for damage. Caulk or repair as necessary.
  
• Septic system. Schedule professional pumping and inspection at least every 2 years.