How often do you check your rentals - smoke detectors etc

Question

Do you do this yourself?  How frequently?

Do you pay to change out ac filters or expect tenants to do that?  How frequently?

Do you provide fire extinguisher in each rental?

I’m trying to think of any opportunities I have to reduce risk to my real estate portfolio. What other things am I not thinking of?

Patricia Steiner · Answer

My clients and I use a Property Inspection Checklist (proprietary) which is completed quarterly on all rentals. Each owner/client has a vetted resource I have provided who does the physical inspections, changes AC filters, changes out smoke detector batteries when scheduled, and documents any repairs/improvements/issues. The resource works for each owner and is paid by each owner; the fee is determined by the two parties but it generally is $50 or so. The completed inspection form is sent to the specific owners for review.  Next steps/repairs are planned at that time.

I would never leave filter replacement to the tenant; it just doesn't get done and shortens the life of the unit.

Each property has a fire extinguisher with the expiration date noted on the outside of the can with a Sharpie pen (those suckers expire!).  We also provide a toilet plunger, hair removal tool for the shower/tub, and instructions on how to reset a garbage disposal, etc.

Having a standard process for all properties streamlines the effort and lowers costs.  Hope this helps...

Christine Kankowski · Answer

We go in once a year and test all the smoke detectors, check around the water heater, and make sure the air filters were changed by tenants.  We replace detectors if they no longer function. we use the spray cans to actually test the detectors.  pushing the reset button only confirms there is power to the detectors, not that the smoke sensor still works.

Steve S. · Answer

Thanks for the thoughts everyone

Nathan Gesner · Answer

We inspect at least once a year. For higher-risk tenants, we inspect up to four times a year for the first year and then loosen the standard if they are doing well.

We do not provide fire extinguishers but we certainly make sure the homes have smoke and CO2 detectors. We test them before occupancy and then it's a tenant responsibility while they live there. Same with air filters.

Bjorn Ahlblad · Answer

@Steve S. All tenants have fire extinguishers. We inspect once a year. Filters, batteries, leaks etc are looked after by our handywoman. Sometimes they go together other times separately. Do what works for you inspections are essential. Our new tenants are inspected at 6 months. They all get notice of a week or two.

How often do you check your rentals - smoke detectors etc

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