
Did you know that 89% of landlords cover the cost of property repairs? (Porch.com).
As a landlord, you want to avoid an ugly confrontation with your tenants over a misunderstanding or disagreement. That’s why it’s crucial to make everything clear in writing before the tenant moves into your property. That way, both parties are fully aware of their responsibilities.
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When it comes to property maintenance, this is often a grey area. Is the broken toaster a landlord’s responsibility to repair? What about the peeling paint in the bathroom? If you, as the landlord, receive a call from a disgruntled tenant about a leaky faucet, is it your job - and at your cost - to fix it?
Winter is the perfect time for landlords to consider their property maintenance. Read on for Seeff’s guide to a landlord’s maintenance responsibilities.
Every landlord should care about maintaining their rental property - a.k.a, their property investment. You might not be living in it yourself, but it’s still a source of income and needs to attract - and retain - quality tenants to reap a profit.
Here are three reasons why a landlord should care about maintaining their rental property:
Before a tenant moves into your rental property, the property must be fit for residence. As the landlord, this is your responsibility. You need to ensure that the property’s structural integrity is sound and conduct a thorough inspection of the house.
Landlord, here are five common questions to ask yourself before a tenant moves into your property:
Once a tenant has moved into your property, things can get awkward if maintenance issues arise. Knowing what repairs you’re obligated to pay for can be challenging. The vital thing to note is that a landlord’s maintenance responsibilities primarily concern any damages and repairs that are not the result of a tenant’s negligence or natural causes.
However, there is no one-size-fits-all rule, so clarifying responsibilities in the lease agreement is essential. Your local property practitioner can advise, too.
Here are a few maintenance tasks a landlord is generally responsible for:
For example, torn curtains or a cracked countertop are not fair wear and tear, whereas a faded patio cushion or leaky faucet both are - and thus fall under the landlord’s responsibility to repair/replace.
Just before the tenant vacates your property, it is time for the outgoing inspection of the property. A tenant, landlord, and property practitioner will carry this out together.
Before a new tenant moves in, consider the following:
For example, if your tenant accidentally drops and breaks a glass, they are financially responsible for this damage. It will not be the landlord’s responsibility.
Do you still have pressing questions about a landlord’s responsibilities? Have a look at Seeff’s complete breakdown of a landlord’s responsibilities in South Africa. If you are preparing your home for renting, read Seeff’s blog on home maintenance tips.