Preparing Your Property For Summer
As the warmer months approach, it’s important to complete some key tasks to prepare your property. From clearing gutters to maintaining pools and gardens, proactively tackling these jobs before the hottest days arrive will help keep your property in top condition. Keep reading to learn what jobs should be done at your investment property before summer.
Protect against fire danger
Bushfire season can put your property at risk if you’re unprepared. Make sure to check all gutters for any build-up of leaves, sticks, and other debris, as these materials are highly flammable. Regularly removing them is crucial.
In most states, it’s the landlord’s responsibility to ensure there are working smoke alarms installed in the property. Each year, either you or your property manager should organise for a professional smoke alarm inspector to test the alarms to ensure they are functioning properly.
Maintain gardens
If your property has gardens, they may need a tidy-up after the cooler months. Tasks such as weeding garden beds, adding fresh mulch, and making sure plants are well-watered are essential to keep the garden looking its best.
Ensure pool safety
Pool safety regulations vary across different states and territories, but most pools and spas generally require a compliant safety barrier or fence. As summer nears, it’s also important to check that the pool’s chemical levels and cleanliness are regularly maintained to ensure it’s safe for tenants to swim in.
Consider insulation
If your property isn’t insulated, consider installing insulation to help keep it cooler during summer and warmer in winter. While the cost of installing insulation may allow for higher rental returns, it can also benefit your tenants by reducing their electricity bills, as less energy will be needed for heating or cooling.
Check up on your tenant’s plans
The Australian summer months are a popular time for travel, with many people visiting family and friends. If you’re planning to carry out any maintenance or repairs over summer, check with your tenants in advance to see if they’ll be home, or arrange for your property manager to provide access to contractors.
Summer is a great time to enjoy the sunny weather and take a break over the holidays. To avoid potential issues at your property, get started on maintenance and repair tasks now to ensure your property remains in excellent condition.
Remember, this article is general in nature and is not financial or legal advice. Please consult your professional financial and legal advisors before making any decisions for yourself.
