Landlord Quick Tip

Tip #232:  Chicken Bones in the Garbage Disposal?

headacheSome landlords make a dangerous assumption.

They assume that their tenants will understand the best way to use household appliances. If you want to stretch the life of your valuable assets, and reduce the risk of property damage or catastrophes like fires or flooding, you can’t leave it to chance.

Instruct tenants on regular use of finicky appliances like dishwashers, garbage disposals and driers.  Follow the manufacturers’ guidelines and your experience to develop a set of simple instructions.  Provide the information at the tenant orientation, create a handbook that stays at the property, or post a laminated sign in the unit — or better yet, do all three.

Some popular household cleaners are not suited for stainless steel appliances. The same is true for other household surfaces like granite, unsealed stone or engineered wood.  Include a list of acceptable cleaners so your property is returned in good condition.

Because so many rental properties today are single family homes, you can limit damage from water and reduce other risks by showing tenants the water and power shut-off locations.

Encourage your tenants to report suspected water leaks immediately, and to follow an emergency plan if they smell gas.

See last week’s Landlord Quick Tip.

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