If I plan on doing anything that would inconvenience them (paint the porch, replace sidewalk) I let them know 'way in advance.Twice a year, I change all the smoke/CO alarm batteries & double-check the thermostat batteries.

Here are a few items they highlighted - repaint concrete sidewalk which had been previously painted and now chipping and replace a cast iron plumbing stack, which is functioning PERFECTLY, only because it is STARTING to barnacle.

Sometimes a simple change to the grade around the foundation can fix the issue or if there is a cement side walk/patio, make sure it’s sealed.

Yes, it is written words, but so is chalk on a sidewalk.

New concrete side walks and stoops in the spring!

For instance, in CA when it starts to rain, you will often be invaded by these tiny ants we call cement ants - they usually live under sidewalks or cement porches, and when their ant condos get flooded, they invade your home.  

If you do help him, he'll let you believe he's your problem.One concession I did use with my tenants I had to dis-invite (I only ever had to do this with inherited tenants after I learned to screen better) was to tell them that if they left the unit undamaged and really clean and didn't just pile a bunch of stuff out on the sidewalk for me to have to deal with - that I'd give them their deposit back in cash when I received the keys, instead of making them wait 21 days to get it. 

BUT, on the other hand, you will be the one enjoying the new sidewalk.

Driveways, storm pond , storm sewer, signage, fences, sidewalks, fire hydrants, fire suppression, external water/sewer/electric/fiber hookup,  internal utility runs, soil compaction, epa, flood zone, flood plain, natural water flow off property, hvac, etc.

Way less rentals, less affordability and even more tents on the sidewalks and excrement in the streets.