Unknown Deferred Maintenance - How do you attack it?

Question

I bought a few properties with some deffered maintenance issues handed down from the previous owner.

How do you all attack it?

Is there a checklist you use or a certain group of tasks that you have the trades perform as preventive measures?

Gail K. · Answer

Think along the lines of what is the most expensive to replace?  I have a contract with an HVAC company that comes and cleans/checks out my units twice a year; typically at the beginning of "heat" season and the beginning of "cooling" season.  And checking to make sure that box of 12 filters you left for the tenant actually contains LESS than 12 filters as time rolls on.

You don't need a plumber to check connections but it's a good idea to check for leaks under kitchen/bathroom cabinets.  Sometimes tenants don't realize this; sometimes they don't care.  But even a small leak can do a heck of lot of damage to the flooring of most vanities and cabinets.

Gail

Account Closed · Answer

This is all makes sense, but I was wondering if you used some sort of checklist or had a systemic way of preventive maintenance.

Like getting a plumber to check the places and Tighten connections Or...

I'm just brain storming trying to approach the issues in a systemic way versus of playing whack a mole when something needs attention.

Theresa Harris · Answer

I agree with Scott.  Figure out what needs to be done now, are there other things that could be done at the same time to save money.  What can wait til the next vacancy.

Bjorn Ahlblad · Answer

The most important thing is to either have money or access to money. Stuff can always be fixed if you have money. Being forced to sell because you don't have the money is the single worst thing to happen to an investor. Did I mention money?

Scott M. · Answer

We put them in categories.  What has to be done now, what can wait.  Also, what ones are likely to cause tenant issues and we prioritize those as well.  If you look at each item individually VS all of them as a group it generally becomes clear what needs to be done.

Unknown Deferred Maintenance - How do you attack it?

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