Rental property maintenance is especially important during Central Florida summers. Between the heat, humidity, and heavy rain, your rental property needs some serious prep to stay in great shape. You want to protect your investment and keep your tenants happy throughout the entire season. So, whether you're a new rental owner or a seasoned investor, use these rental property tips to get ahead of summer property maintenance.
Schedule an A/C Checkup (ASAP)
No one thinks of air conditioning as a luxury in Florida: it’s a necessity. Ensure your tenants are comfortable and happy by scheduling regular AC checkups.
Change the air filter
Clear the drain line
Clean vents
Check for leaks
Pro tip: If the A/C isn't cooling properly, don’t switch the fan to “On.” This could cause the system to overwork, leading to expensive repairs.
Mind Your Foliage
The little things in Orlando property management matter. That means keeping trees, shrubs, and other landscaping manicured and fresh.
Boost Curb Appeal with Mulch and Plants
If you have vacant property, take this opportunity to freshen up the landscaping. A little mulch and a few low-maintenance plants can go a long way in attracting quality tenants.
Trim Overhanging Tree Limbs
Branches hanging over the roof can cause serious damage during a storm. Trim them back to protect shingles and windows and reduce the risk of injury.
Look High and Low for Outside Maintenance Issues
Regularly inspect the outside area of your property and plan for common maintenance tasks to avoid bigger issues in the future.
Inspect the Roof for Leaks
Summer means storm season. Look for missing shingles, soft spots, or any signs of water damage. Early fixes prevent major problems later.
Clean Out the Gutters
Clogged gutters = poor drainage. Keep water flowing away from the foundation by clearing leaves and debris now.
Check the Pool Pump
If your property includes a pool, double-check the pump and filtration system. Clean filters and inspect for leaks or strange noises. Consider hiring a weekly pool service to ensure that chemicals and filters are properly maintained.
Schedule Pest Control
Insects love Florida’s summer heat and humidity. Make sure your lease includes tenant requirements to require keeping the property clean and free of debris that attracts pests. Protect your investment with a preventative pest treatment.
Watch for Water Issues
Water has a sneaky way of causing problems if you don’t inspect things regularly. To keep water where it belongs, check these common issues.
Drain the Water Heater
Help your water heater last longer by draining built-up sediment.
Here’s how:
Turn off the water and power
Attach a hose to the drain valve
Open a hot water tap
Drain, then refill, and restore power
Check for Mold and Mildew
Humidity fosters the growth of mold, which can lead to health issues and structural damage. Look in bathrooms, under sinks, around windows, and in the attic or crawl spaces. Catching mold or mildew issues early prevents bigger headaches later.
Energy Efficiencies During Vacancies
Minimize the costs of a vacant rental home by taking these simple actions.
Unplug Unused Electronics
Unplugging power strips and devices when not in use helps save energy and lower utility bills.
Program the Thermostat
Take advantage of off-peak hours to keep the home cool without overworking the system. Consider investing in a smart thermostat.
Use Ceiling Fans and Natural Ventilation
Ceiling fans can help cool the house without relying entirely on air conditioning.
Consider Adding Insulation
Better insulation means better efficiency. You’ll keep the cool air in and lower your utility bills.
Final Thoughts
Smart, seasonal rental property maintenance helps you avoid expensive repairs and keeps tenants satisfied. Conducting periodic inspections can help you identify small problems before they escalate into larger ones.
If you’re not sure where to start or would rather not handle it yourself, our Orlando property management team is here to help. We offer you property peace of mind so you can relax this summer knowing your investment is protected and well-maintained.