Tenant Proofing Ideas

[Ryan Moore]

What are some good tenant-proofing upgrades that I can make before renting out a unit in my MF? I already plan to evaluate the carpet that's in there and check to make sure things like the doors have stoppers to prevent wall/door damage.

[Michael Boyer]

This is one of my all time favorite topics on BP! There are a few classic threads out there on point-- like this one (with 284 replies!):

https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/52/topics/680...

Without providing a laundry list, I think the theme is to tackle the wear points and troubleshoot the individual unit.

For example, start at the door (door mat to catch debris, good functioning new lock, perfect close and open, door stop) and work through each room with that level of detail ( example: Bathroom: new shower curtain, bath mat, caulk, new toilet flapper or overhaul kit inside, strong towel bars, etc.)

I would focus first on the low cost items that can prevent larger problems (your doorstop type theme) and then also evaluate any larger item close to the end of its useful life, especially if showing signs of problems (be it hot water heater, worn flooring, or an appliance).

 I will often replace these bigger items at turnover simply because it is so much easier than doing it when a tenant is in there (think scheduling, moving their items, disruptions, etc).

Best of luck in bulletproofing your rentals!