What does summer feel like to you?
Maybe it’s the joy of the sun still shining at 8 p.m. Maybe it’s the thrill of beach trips or some extra vacation days put to good use. Whatever your favorite summer activities may be, there’s something you cannot forget about: Seasonal maintenance at your rental property.
As a rental property owner in Santa Cruz County, keeping your investment in top condition throughout the year is key to maintaining your property’s value, attracting quality tenants, and
avoiding costly repairs. While regular maintenance is a year-round responsibility, summer presents a unique opportunity to tackle tasks that are critical for the well-being of your rental property and your tenants.
Here’s a comprehensive summer property maintenance checklist to help you get your rental properties ready for the season.
Inspect and Maintain the Roof
Summer in many parts of Santa Cruz County can bring occasional heat waves and heavy storms, so
it’s important to inspect your roof to ensure it can withstand the season’s weather.
Check for damaged shingles or tiles. Damaged roofing materials can lead to leaks and water damage. If your property has a flat roof, make sure the sealant is intact. If you have gutters, make sure they’re clear of debris, especially after the spring bloom. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and potentially damage the roof, siding, or foundation. In Santa Cruz, where rainfall can still occur in late spring, clearing gutters is essential.
This is a good time to look for signs of
water damage. Inside the attic, check for any signs of water staining or mold. These could indicate leaks or issues with the roof that need attention before the summer rains hit.
Service HVAC Systems in Rentals
With temperatures in Santa Cruz County sometimes reaching the high 80s or even 90s during summer, tenants will likely rely heavily on air conditioning or heating systems. To ensure optimal performance and avoid breakdowns, it’s crucial to service the HVAC system before summer kicks in.
- Keep up with filter changes. Clean or replace the air filters to improve air quality and airflow. Dirty filters can reduce the efficiency of the system and increase utility bills.
- Schedule professional servicing. Have a licensed HVAC technician inspect the system, check the refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and ensure everything is functioning correctly.
- Check thermostat settings. Ensure that thermostats are working accurately and that tenants know how to use them efficiently.
Check Windows and Doors
Santa Cruz County is known for its mild coastal climate, but during summer, you’ll likely get warmer temperatures, which may encourage tenants to open windows and doors. Ensuring that windows and doors are properly sealed and functioning is crucial for both comfort and security.
Check for drafts and seal any gaps or cracks around windows and doors to keep your rental property energy-efficient and reduce cooling costs. Consider applying fresh weather-stripping or caulking. This is a good time to check the locks and hardware. You want to know if windows and doors can open, close, lock, and unlock properly. Windows and screens should be cleaned annually. Replace torn screens, which helps to keep out bugs.
Maintain the Landscaping
Santa Cruz’s coastal environment can be a
boost for landscaping, but the summer heat can quickly dry out lawns and plants. Well-maintained landscaping not only improves curb appeal but also helps with water management and property drainage.
- Lawn care. Ensure that lawns are properly watered and mowed. If you have a sprinkler system, check it for leaks and ensure it’s distributing water efficiently.
- Tree and shrub trimming. Trim overgrown branches or shrubs that could obstruct walkways, damage the property, or affect tenants’ enjoyment of outdoor spaces.
- Irrigation system check. Inspect irrigation systems to ensure they are functioning properly. Replace any broken sprinkler heads or hoses to prevent water wastage.
Check the Plumbing
Summer often means increased water usage, so it’s a good time to inspect the plumbing system to prevent leaks, clogs, and other issues that could lead to costly repairs or tenant dissatisfaction.
Start by inspecting hoses and faucets. Check for leaks around outdoor hoses, faucets, and spigots. Replace any damaged or worn-out hoses and fixtures. Address any water pressure issues. Low water pressure or unexpected fluctuations can indicate plumbing problems. Consider hiring a plumber to check for hidden issues.
Check the water heater and make sure it’s working efficiently, especially if it’s located outside or in a garage that can heat up during summer months. If your rental has a tankless water heater, ensure it’s clean and the system is properly calibrated.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Double-check that the detectors are properly placed in accordance with what’s required for rental homes. Smoke detectors should be installed in or near every sleeping area, and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed near the furnace or heating systems. Ensure that all detectors meet California’s safety requirements.
With proper maintenance and attention to detail, your rental properties in Santa Cruz County can remain in excellent condition throughout the summer season, keeping tenants satisfied and your property profitable. Regularly tackling essential tasks like HVAC servicing, plumbing checks, roof inspections, and pest control can help prevent major issues.
Please contact us at Western Property Management if you need help setting up a summer or seasonal maintenance schedule. We lease,
manage, and maintain investment properties throughout Santa Cruz County, including Aptos, Capitola, Soquel, Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and Scotts Valley.
