Everyday Emergency Maintenance
Residential rental property owners are represented by both genders. So, a lesson worth revisiting in a discussion of dealing with investment property emergencies may be taken from the Scouts.
The Girl Scout motto is "Be prepared”. A Girl Scout is ready to help out wherever she is needed. You must know how to do the job well, even in an emergency.
The Boy Scout Motto is: BE PREPARED which means you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your DUTY.
That said, let’s see how to apply these fine cautions to the world of everyday residential real estate investor emergency maintenance issues … and be sure to see our next blog preparing for the unpredictable, and often more dramatic natural disaster events.
Everyday Emergency Maintenance
The three main emergencies reported by renters are related to:
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Gas
Plumbing
Plumbing issues are often the result of a lack of knowledge by renters as to how to avoid potential problems. For example, during the cold winter season, some residents turn off the heat when they are away from the rental unit to save on the energy bill. A forgotten open window can drive inside temperatures below freezing with a burst pipe as the consequence. Results: Floor and ceiling damage at the very least.
Preventive solution: Communicate with rental property residents about the potential problems that may occur when basic plumbing precautions are overlooked.
Electrical
Electrical problems are common in rental properties of all types, ages and sizes. Common electric problems include dead outlets, faulty light fixtures or nonworking light switches. Not all electrical issues are an emergency. For example, a call saying the power has gone out may be quickly resolved by asking if surrounding homes and buildings appear to be out. If it is just their location it is likely a tripped breaker.
Preventive solution: Talk the tenant through re-setting the circuit breaker. Neighborhood-wide power loss is in the hands of the electrical service provider.
Gas
A tenant complaint of a gas smell must be met with prompt, professional service. It may be as simple as re-lighting a pilot light, but leaking gas could lead to major problems … plus not all tenants are aware just how dangerous gas can be.
Note: Whether becoming a landlord was a choice or a result of circumstance, it doesn’t change the fact
that managing any property comes with its challenges… and we want to help.
At KRS Holdings, we stand by our core principles: Successful property management is based on simple math: Add value to your assets, subtract unnecessary expenses.
Give us a call or drop an email. We’ll respond promptly to relieve
your stress and help you evaluate your property management options
plus maximize your rental property return on investment.