Spring is the season of revival. And for landlords, there is no better time to do all those important cleaning and maintenance tasks than spring. While Shaw rental homes need maintenance year-round, spring presents a unique opportunity to check your properties for a few specific things. Although spring cleaning and maintenance can be a large undertaking, they can’t just be neglected or postponed.
Season-specific cleaning and maintenance items can involve either the interior or exterior of your rental homes – or both. But spring is the ideal time to get all these little tasks done. There are some tasks that are too difficult to do in winter temperatures and tasks that are about checking the damage caused by winter storms and freezing temperatures. For example, it’s important to examine concrete areas each year, including foundation, driveway, walkways, patios, and more, for new cracks or gaps. Windows and doors, too, need to be checked for cracks and gaps (including weather-stripping) and repaired or replaced. Window and door screens accumulate a lot of dirt and debris in the winter, making spring the most excellent time to clean them. The roof should be checked for loose, missing, or damaged materials, and any leaves or debris cleared out of the gutters and downspouts.
Aside from the big items, you need to check on smaller features as well. Exterior door hardware should be checked, and squeaky hinges or broken locks repaired or replaced. Exterior trim might profit from a few touch-ups, and exterior wood elements should be examined to find out if they need to be refinished or sealed. And remember to look at the outdoor light fixtures – they may have bulbs that no longer work.
When going through spring cleaning, remember to include the yard in the to-do list. Sprinkler systems and outdoor faucets should be tested and turned on if winterized. Dead leaves and branches may have fallen during the winter, so once spring comes around, you may need to do a general clean-up. Spring is also a great time to fertilize lawns, trees, and other vegetation.
Going a little bit further, spring is a great time to examine the perimeter fences and freestanding mailboxes. Broken fence slats will need to be replaced, and wobbly or failing posts repaired. Gate hardware should be examined for rust or other issues and repaired as needed. Finally, spring is a great time to check on the home’s garbage cans and see what state they are in. If the lids can’t close properly or holes have started appearing, it’s probably time to get new ones.
This is no more than a starting point for a complete and thorough spring cleaning & maintenance list. With such a huge number of things that need to be accomplished, it’s only reasonable to bring in a team of professionals who can handle the process for you. When you hire Real Property Management DC Metro, you won’t need to be anxious about spring maintenance. We will make sure to complete seasonal tasks thoroughly and promptly. If you are interested in working with Real Property Management DC Metro or still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us online or give us a ring at 202-269-0303.
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