As a Denver, CO landlord, now is the right time to prioritize strong relations with your tenants. Demand across the local rental market remains flat, with rents trending downwards as more people leave.
More so than almost anything else, keeping a positive relationship with your tenants and reducing vacancies starts with property maintenance. A well-maintained property is always a better place to live, and a tenant is always more likely to stay with a landlord that keeps a property in tip-top shape.
But what are your legal real estate maintenance responsibilities, and which are optional? Read our quick guide for Denver landlords to find out.
Your Legal Obligations
In Colorado, landlords must adhere to specific legal responsibilities regarding property maintenance. State law mandates that you keep the property in a "habitable condition." This includes essential repairs like fixing leaks, maintaining heating systems, and addressing electrical issues. Failing to do so can lead to legal disputes or even loss of rental income.
Your tenants also have certain maintenance obligations under Colorado law. They must keep their unit clean and sanitary, dispose of trash properly, and avoid damaging the property. If they neglect these duties, you may have grounds to deduct repair costs from their deposit or even take legal action.
Optional (But Recommended) Tasks
While keeping a property liveable is of course the first priority, you should not stop at the bare minimum. There are a number of optional tasks that will keep tenants happy, but also maintain your long-term property value. These include:
- Yard maintenance: Mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and watering plants.
- Replacing light bulbs: Tenants can be responsible for replacing standard bulbs inside their unit.
- Minor plumbing upkeep: Such as unclogging drains or replacing showerheads.
Remember, you don't have to do it all yourself. You can use your lease agreement to encourage tenants to share the load. In exchange, you can offer reduced rent or other benefits. When it comes to property maintenance, work together with your tenants for everyone's benefit.
Maintenance Schedules Are Essential
Proactive rental property maintenance is key to preserving your property's long-term value. Implementing a maintenance schedule helps you stay on top of essential tasks and avoid more costly property maintenance costs. Create a checklist of regular maintenance tasks, such as inspecting HVAC systems, cleaning gutters, and checking for water damage.
Schedule these tasks seasonally to align with Denver's climate. For example, prepare for winter by checking heating systems and insulating pipes. In the spring, focus on landscaping and roof inspections. Share this schedule with your tenants so they know what to expect and how to prepare.
A consistent maintenance schedule is your best defense against unexpected repair costs.
We Handle All Property Maintenance Needs for Denver Landlords
Effective property maintenance is more than just a burden. It's your trade secret to ensuring happy tenants, low vacancies, and a portfolio that maintains its value over time.
With the right communication, foresight, and planning, your maintenance can be a long-term money maker. If you need help getting the most from your maintenance, we have got you covered.
At Walters and Company Management, we take care of all of your maintenance with our network of trusted, cost-effective contractors. Reach out to our Denver team to find out how to get started with us.
