As Utah rental vacancies slowly increase, Salt Lake City landlords are scrambling for ways to help their properties stand out in a more competitive market. Hiring a property manager is one way to do this.
These experts can assist you with a range of services to help you attract and keep tenants for a fee. These services include overseeing maintenance coordination to ensure the appeal of your rental home, but they don't include the cost of maintenance.
Read on to find out who pays for what when it comes to maintaining your Salt Lake City investment property.
Do Tenants Pay for Property Maintenance in Utah?
It depends. The landlord is ultimately responsible for repairs and maintenance regarding their property, but the tenant also has some maintenance responsibilities.
These include:
- Keeping the property safe, clean, and habitable
- Complying with building and housing codes
- Making small repairs as needed
- Not damaging the property negligently or deliberately
- Attending to daily wear and tear issues
To this end, it's important to carry out move-in property inspections with the tenant present and to include any maintenance expectations in the lease agreement.
In some cases, landlords can arrange for their tenants to see to things like lawn care and maintaining the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as long as everything is in writing and signed by both parties.
What Do Property Management Fees Include?
Hiring a property manager is one way to ensure you don't fall behind in your responsibilities as a landlord. Their services include things like:
- Lease origination and negotiations
- Rental property accounting
- Rent collection
- Property inspections
- Maintenance coordination
Property managers are well-versed in prevailing laws regarding who's responsible for maintenance tasks and will forward any ensuing bills to the relevant party.
What Is Property Maintenance Coordination?
Property maintenance coordination is vital for preserving the value of your rental home. It involves performing routine and preventive maintenance tasks according to a schedule.
Staying up-to-date with these tasks helps you avoid expensive repairs and unnecessary replacements. Spreading them out can help you budget more effectively.
Regular inspections are the best way to keep tabs on whether your tenants are upholding their lease as well as performing minor maintenance tasks. These include testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors or replacing HVAC filters.
Property managers can respond to emergency repair requests promptly to avoid further damage and repair costs. They often have ongoing relationships with local contractors to ensure fast service and preferential prices on repairs.
Hire a Property Manager Today
Working with a property manager saves you time and money in many aspects. It ensures you stay in line with prevailing laws and keeps your tenants happy.
Utah Property Solutions can assist you with property maintenance coordination, lease management, and tenant relations. Our in-house field technician ensures your property stays in great condition to satisfy your tenants and save you money down the line.
We are committed to preserving the value of your Salt Lake City property. Avoid the pitfalls of DIY property management and get an expert team on your side today.