In Texas, there’s never any doubt when summer has arrived. As a property owner, you’re no doubt aware of all the challenges that come along with summertime property management. Here are some helpful reminders to protect your rental property from the torments of hot, Texas summer.
First and Foremost – Stay Cool and Keep It That Way
- Ceiling fans occasionally get wobbly, so check to make sure screws are tight.
- Check windows and doors for air leaks and if there are any, seal them off with weather stripping or caulk.
- Air conditioning units should be checked before summer, but do it if you haven’t. Make sure a qualified heating and cooling contractor cleans and services the outside unit of the air conditioning system to keep it at best performance level
- Interior a/c filters must be changed on a regular basis. Remind your tenant and leave them some.
Landscaping and Home Exterior
- Loose or leaky gutters can cause damage. Debris builds up and needs to cleared away.
- Clean windows make any home more beautiful.
- Check the deck for loose or curling boards and replace them.
- Roof and chimney inspection are a must. If the roof is older, budget for a new one down the road.
- Exterior hose faucets should be checked for leaks.
- Window and door locks should be secure and functioning correctly. If there are screens, check for holes.
- Recreational equipment such as swing sets, pool pumps, and barbeque grills should be in good shape.
- Keeping a well-maintained yard means nice plants, adding a layer of mulch to retain moisture, and keeping the ground near the foundation moist.
- Trees, plants, and bushes should be pruned and cut back from the house.
- Regular mowing will encourage healthier grass growth, remembering to keep it longer in the hot, summer months.
- The concrete in the driveway and patio may need an inspection. Seal the cracks to avoid further damage.
Inside the House
- Clogged dryer vents are a health and fire hazard; clean them and the lint trap.
- Clean or replace the furnace filter.
- Check water hoses on clothes washers, refrigerators and dishwashers for cracks or bubbles. Replace any that show signs of damage.
- Check electrical outlets to make sure there are no potential fire hazards.
- Clean dust from smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace the batteries.
- Clear the garage of any paints or solvents and do not store combustible materials in the garage during the summer.
If this sounds like a lot of work to successfully manage your rental property, that’s because it is. If you find that your schedule is too busy to undertake such detailed maintenance, call the people who can manage it for you – Cousin James Management. Summertime property management is what we do best and we’ve been doing it for a long time. You enjoy the rewards of your investment and let us do the ‘heavy lifting’.