If you're a rental property owner in Dayton, do you know what kind of shape it's in? Failing to monitor your property's condition could mean it falls into disrepair. Even worse, your best tenants won't want to stick around.
Don't take that risk. Read on to learn how often you should conduct rental property inspections!
Know the Rules
One of the biggest property inspection tips is to understand the local and state rules regarding inspections. In Ohio, you'll need to give tenants at least 24 hours' notice prior to doing an inspection. The only exception is if there is an emergency and you must enter the unit immediately.
Violating these rules can land you in legal trouble. And that can cut into your profits and reputation as a property owner.
Working with an experienced property management company can ensure that you're always operating within the law. When you search for property management in Dayton online, you'll find reputable options.
Determine the Type of Inspection
The type of inspection will determine its frequency. You'll want to inspect units before a tenant moves in and after they've moved out of the property, for instance. The latter inspection can impact whether they get their deposit back.
Dayton rental property maintenance needs to be an annual priority. As such, you should plan on doing inspections at least once a year to evaluate the property's structural integrity. But you may want to do less comprehensive inspections quarterly or seasonally.
Tenants may make maintenance requests that require an inspection. These types of inspections won't be as predictable to schedule. But they do need prompt attention as part of your strategy for property management success.
Take the Considerate Approach
Tenants will appreciate knowing the nature of the inspection when you need to do one. You'll also earn their respect when you offer plenty of notice beyond what is required, if possible.
Follow a rental inspection schedule and communicate clearly with your tenants. If you want to inspect your Dayton property quarterly, notify tenants at the start of their lease with your proposed dates. That way, you'll help everyone with planning.
Understand the Benefits
Lastly, know that doing routine rental property inspections will pay off in the long run. Even if it feels like one more task to complete, you'll save yourself from more expensive issues down the road.
You'll be able to keep vital property systems, like HVAC and plumbing, in good repair. As a result, you can avoid a situation where small, overlooked problems snowball into bigger ones. For instance, an unaddressed leak in an HVAC system could trigger motor problems.
By making Dayton rental property maintenance a priority, you'll also earn tenants' respect. They'll know you care about upkeep and they could be more likely to renew leases.
Pursue Regular Rental Property Inspections
Rental property inspections can keep your property in good shape, but you'll need to be mindful of local rules. Always offer at least 24 hours' notice. And plan on inspecting properties after a tenant moves out.
At Bridgestream Property Management, we have a seasoned team of real estate experts to help you maximize your property's value. We'll help you assess Dayton market conditions, market your property, and manage it. Contact us today to learn more!
