Summer brings hot, sunny days perfect for relaxing and enjoying yourself. However, summer also offers an opportunity to do key maintenance before fall.
Below is a list of five maintenance items you should consider doing during summer to benefit your Long Beach rental properties.
Ensuring your cooling system functions efficiently during heavy summer usage is important for keeping your tenant comfortable. Basic upkeep can include replacing old and dirty air filters to improve airflow and increase efficiency. Cleaning the coils and checking refrigerant levels help to ensure the system's optimal performance. For rental properties with HVAC systems, summer is a great time to inspect your ductwork for leaks or obstructions. Simple maintenance can go a long way, but these tips can help enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, it may lead to lower utility bills and reduce the risk of breakdowns during extreme heat which can result in an expensive repair bill.
Although inspecting a roof during the scorching summer is far from an ideal time, it does help to inspect your roof for any damage caused by the rain and winds. Pay attention to areas such as missing or damaged shingles. These can be potential leaks, which can compromise the roof's overall integrity. Cleaning rain gutters is essential in preventing water damage and ensuring proper drainage. By addressing the gutters during a dry season you can more easily see cracks that can be repaired in time for the following rainy season.
Maintaining curb appeal is important year-round. During the summer, regular lawn and tree trimming is typical. However, refreshing mulch and inspecting the siding or paint of your rental can help keep your property looking vibrant. Sprinkler systems can sometimes become clogged or damaged, wasting water and causing dry patches on the lawn.
If your rental has large trees, ensure they’re not overgrown. Tree roots can damage sidewalks and driveways, while some tree limbs can damage fencing and generally look unkempt. Taking care of these exterior issues can not only improve the property's appearance but also enhance the safety of tenants and their guests. These maintenance items can improve your property's attractiveness, reduce water waste, and increase
tenant satisfaction.
Summer can often bring with it an increase in pest activity. Performing preventative measures can be crucial for property maintenance. Have your rental property inspected for signs of pest activity, just because you can't see them doesn't necessarily mean you’re in the clear. Look for nests, droppings, or odd smells, indicating that your rental property may be infested. These actions can help protect your rental property from damage caused by pests and ensure your tenant's comfort. Staying ahead of pests can avoid expensive repairs throughout the summer months.
Drafts, sealing gaps, and window cracks can greatly affect the efficiency and comfort of your property. Repairing or replacing damaged windows and window screens can significantly improve energy efficiency by preventing air leaks when the air conditioning is turned on and keeping pests out if your tenants just want to open the window. For old cracked windows, consider replacing them entirely with energy-efficient windows. They can not only further reduce cooling costs during hot months but also provide long-term savings. These upgrades can make the rental property more comfortable and secure while increasing its appeal and value.
Summer is one of the greatest reasons to live in Southern California. Although responsibilities come with it, if you are looking to do summer maintenance on your rental or need help managing your Beach City rental property, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our
Owner Application online.
