Landlord Resources

Spring Clean Your Property

By Sarah Barton, Terri Scheer Distribution Channel Manager

The weather is warmer, gardens are blooming and properties tend to be highly sought after in spring.

Whether your landlords are looking to attract new tenants or sell their property – now is a good time to spring clean their property.

Taking the time to prepare a property for market is a valuable first step for growing a landlord’s investment portfolio and it may increase their chances of selling it faster.

Today we bring together some insights into how you can help your landlords and tenants get their property in tip-top shape.

Routine inspections

Carrying out regular routine property inspections helps to ensure a property is being looked after and monitors any maintenance or safety issues.

Scheduling a thorough property inspection during spring as the weather warms up is a good opportunity to ensure the overall look and feel of the property is at its best, particularly if it’s going on the market.

For example, check appliances such as smoke alarms are in working order and batteries replaced, and that gardens are cut back and prepared for bushfire season.

It’s a tenant’s responsibility to maintain the general upkeep and cleanliness of a property and also raise any issues as they arise.

A property manager will monitor for issues outside of the tenant’s responsibility, many of which are age and weather-related.

This could include identifying leaking taps or consumables to be replaced such as light globes or water filters.

Garden upkeep

As the weather gets warmer, plants and lawn that have been dormant during winter will require water to help them grow.

Check the property’s irrigation system is in good working order. Pruning plants after winter can also help to encourage new growth in spring.

Large trees and hedges should also be cut back to ensure no overhang.

It pays to ensure locks are working on gates for security and fences are inspected and secure in case of strong winds.

Hiring a professional gardener or tradesperson to carry out these tasks can help bring the garden back to life.

Routine maintenance

Routine maintenance is required year-round however there are some tasks that become more relevant during spring.

Spring is a good time to check the roof of your property to ensure there is no damage from winter rain and winds, as this will help reduce the risk of further issues down the track.

It is also worthwhile removing any debris and leaves from the gutters at the same time to avoid water going into roof cavities.

Some air conditioning systems – that have been unused during the cooler months – may require servicing and new filters before spring, to help ensure reliability and the quality of the air indoors.

Backyard pools should also be serviced and new filters fitted as the weather warms up.

Property managers work closely with tradespeople and other professionals and will be able to recommend the most suitable person to carry out the work.

Thank you to Charmaine Young from LJ Hooker for your assistance in writing this column.

For further information, call 1800 804 016.

Disclaimer:

Insurance issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859 trading as Terri Scheer. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance and consider whether it is right for you. Contact Terri Scheer on 1800 804 016 or visit our website at www.terrischeer.com.au for a copy. The Target Market Determination is also available.

The information is intended to be of a general nature only. Subject to any rights you may have under any law, we do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss or damage, including loss of business or profits or any other indirect loss, incurred as a result of reliance upon it – please make your own enquiries. This article has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it.