As a property owner, your main priority is to ensure the building is safe and functional for your tenants. It’s common for a property to need repairs due to wear and tear. Property managers can quickly complete many repairs, but some require more technical expertise. This guide will review the most common property repairs and how to approach them.
1. Toilets
A property’s toilets are used multiple times daily and experience a lot of wear and tear. Common problems include running toilets, leaks, clogs, and flapper or handle repairs. Replacing a toilet’s flapper or handle should be done every few years at minimum, and most toilet problems are pretty easy to repair without a plumber. Flapper or handle replacements can often stop running issues as well. For any major repairs or replacements, plumbers are ideal.
2. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
The HVAC system is responsible for cooling or heating the property when necessary. These systems run frequently during warmer or colder months and experience a lot of wear and tear. HVAC systems are prone to coolant leaks, clogged ducts, and poor airflow. Most HVAC repairs will require professional intervention, as these are complex systems to a layperson. Regular air filter replacement should be done yourself or by a property manager at least every one to three months, depending on the filter type.
3. Drain Clogs
Sink, toilet, and bathtub drains can clog easily due to waste, hair, or food buildup. Many superficial drain clogs can be removed with a plunger or drain snake. However, a plumber should only examine clogs due to significant disposal damage or depth.
4. Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal is a kitchen appliance built into the sink that can cut and break down small amounts of food waste, such as vegetable peels or leftover foods, to avoid drain clogs. It’s normal for a disposal to break due to food buildup or blockages. Some disposal problems can be fixed quickly, such as simple blockages. However, disposals can be dangerous and require professional intervention for more complex issues.
5. Roofing
Roofing is typically quite durable and can last at least ten to twenty years with simple asphalt roofing. However, weather damage can exacerbate issues or break tiles, causing leaks, pests, or weather drafts. Roofing is dangerous and difficult for laypeople to repair, so professional intervention is almost always required.
6. Lighting
Light bulbs can last several years, and LED bulbs can last at least a decade. However, cheaper or older bulbs will need replacement from time to time. Additionally, wiring problems may cause lights to stop working or flicker. Bulbs can be replaced easily by anyone, but more complex wiring or lighting issues should warrant an electrician's visit.
7. Water Heater or Water Pressure
It’s standard for water heaters to stop supplying hot water or only provide lukewarm water at best. Additionally, sediment buildup in water heater tanks can affect water pressure in showers or sinks. These repairs should only be performed by those who know what they’re doing; a contractor or plumber should likely be called.
8. Refrigerators
Due to wiring, coolant leaks, or other internal component issues, refrigerators may break down over time. These can be difficult to repair for a layperson and may require total unit replacement. A technician is best suited for these repairs and can let you know if a replacement is ideal.
9. Sinks
Sink faucets can drip or leak, and sinks can clog. Some faucet problems are fixed with a simple o-ring replacement, and superficial clogs can be fixed with a drain snake or plunger. However, a professional plumber should repair more advanced issues with a sink leak or clog, especially regarding pipe repair or replacement.
10. Smoke Detectors
Most tenants can’t stand the regular ‘beep’ of a smoke detector’s low battery signal. With a ladder and a new battery, this repair is easily fixed. However, a broken smoke detector may be more challenging to fix. Smoke detectors are essential safety features and should be tested monthly and inspected annually for battery replacement. If a battery change doesn’t resolve the issue, consult a technician.
Professional Repairs
Many repairs are DIY-friendly, such as toilet flapper replacements, light bulb replacements, or superficial drain clogs. However, a professional should do any repairs that require technical expertise, such as wiring issues, roofing, deep drain clogs, or significant appliance repairs. Licensed plumbers, electricians, and construction contractors are highly trained and experienced in various repairs or replacements, which will improve safety and prioritize your property investment. Bad repair jobs can lead to significant property damage and potential loss of life, so vetting any contractor you hire is crucial. Verify their licensing and training. Many states require examinations and years of experience before obtaining a license, including optional licensing prep courses from programs like Rocket Cert. No matter how the contractor you hire obtained their license, verify their credentials before hiring.
Conclusion
Repairs are a typical cost of business for property owners or investors. Many repairs can be done yourself or by a property management company to save costs, but others require professional intervention for safety and accuracy. Be sure the professional you hire is experienced, reputable, and licensed.
