How to create an electrical, fire safety, and HVAC maintenance checklist for your rental property
No. 1 – Electrical Maintenance Checklist
Here are the most important electrical considerations for landlords:
- Make sure outlets are wired properly, have polarity, and are grounded with a tester. Any outlet that is not grounded should be grounded by an electrician.
- Fuse boxes and electrical panels – Consult a licensed electrician before replacing any electrical panel.
- Upgrade your building’s wiring if it has older wiring. Ensure that your tenants don’t need extension cords or adapters by replacing 2-prong outlets with modern 3-prong outlets. It is important to replace any “knob and tube” wiring as soon as possible.
No. 2 – Checklist for Fire Safety and Prevention Maintenance
Following are some of the ways you can improve the fire safety of your rental property:
- At every turnover and inspection, replace batteries and test the functionality of smoke and CO2 detectors. Make sure detectors are wired-in where possible.
- Check with your local fire department for information about where fire extinguishers are required and make sure they are recertified regularly.
- Add escape ladders to your move-in/move-out inspection list for each unit above the first floor.
No. 3 – HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Developing an HVAC maintenance checklist will help you stay on top of these routine tasks:
- Change furnace filters regularly to ensure that air flows freely at all times, ensuring efficient operation and equipment longevity.
- The HVAC ducting should be cleaned every 3-5 years to improve indoor air quality. Dust allergies can be a problem for tenants with dirty ducts.
Dryer, Hood, & Fan Venting Maintenance Checklist
A clogged dryer vent, greasy kitchen hood, or dusty bath fan reduces efficiency and poses a fire risk. Here’s how you can fix them:
- Keep dryer vents clean by cleaning lint screens after every load and vent pipes at least every two years.
- Clean the vents in the bathroom, kitchen, and dryer on a regular basis. The bath fan covers and hood filters should be run through the dishwasher every time they are changed.
Key Takeaway
In any property, electrical systems, fire safety systems, and HVAC systems must be maintained.
Not only can any fault in these systems harm your tenants, it can also be costly to repair or replace if not addressed in a timely manner. Landlords can save money and headaches by keeping on top of vital maintenance with a rental maintenance checklist.
