Review Basic Emergency Maintenance Steps with New Residents
By Whitney of Rentals.com
One of the downsides of owning and managing rental properties is the late night emergency calls. Reviewing emergency procedures prior to occupancy might just prevent a late night call from a panic-stricken resident. Always properly identify and preview with the resident the location of the following systems within a rental unit.
Tips For Working With Tenants
Go over these points with the tenant:
1. Where is the water shutoff
2. Where are the circuit breakers
3. Explanation of the GFCIs
4. Operation of the A/C and Heating Thermostat
5. Operation of the Irrigation System
6. Operation of the Security System if there is one.
1) The water shut-off
This is one of the most vital controls to cover with residents. Having this simple knowledge can literally prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Always show residents its location and demonstrate how to shut the water completely off. Hang a “water shut-off” tag on the handle.
2) The circuit-breaker panel box
It is important for residents to not only know where this is located but how to reset a breaker that has tripped.
3) Ground-fault circuit interrupters
GFCIs are in bathrooms and kitchens. Many service calls are made for what is usually a very simple fix involving these safety devices. Make sure your residents know where they are and how to reset them.
4) The thermostat and its proper operation
This is especially important if the rental unit has a heat pump. Varying settings to save expense on heat pumps can actually cost the resident more money in energy costs. Residents should also understand the function of the emergency heat switch.
5) The irrigation system and its operation
Irrigation systems often develop problems with the lines, irrigation heads or drip system.
6) Operation of the Security System if there is one
Nothing is quite as irritating as an alarm system going off and not knowing what to do about it.
Cover these items in advance, and remove some of the headaches associated with rental property management.
Weldon McMath – McMath Realty Property Management