Preparing your investment property for summer

It is important to ensure that your property is kept in good condition throughout the summer holiday period to give you the best chance of attracting and retaining quality tenants, while protecting your investment and its occupants.

Fire danger

Australian summers can be disastrous in relation to fires, a dry winter can often lead to a dangerously hot summer, wreaking havoc in bushy or leafy areas. When it comes to your investment property and the safety of your tenants, you do not want to take any risks with fire hazards. 

If your gutters have a build up of leaves, twigs and debris they can easily become a threat, so ensure you clear your gutters regularly to prevent any risk to the property and to your tenants.

Under Victorian Legislation, it is the Landlords responsibility to provide and maintain working smoke alarms, inspecting and testing them annually. However, ensuring that your investment property and tenants are appropriately protected is not as simple as pressing the “test” button on your smoke alarms.

Engaging a professional smoke alarm inspector to carry out a comprehensive smoke detector service will ensure that both your investment and your tenants are appropriately protected in the event of fire. If you need help engaging a professional, we can assist you.

Garden maintenance and pool safety

Following the cooler months, you might find that your property’s garden is in need of some attention. Weed the garden, lay fresh mulch, ensure your plants are getting enough water but be mindful of any water restrictions in place. 

Summer is also a great time for your tenants to enjoy using the pool, if your property has one. Cleaning the pool is important, but ensuring it is safe is a necessity.

The Victorian Government announced a number of proposed changes to the pool and spa barrier laws this year. Currently, all swimming pools and spas on residential properties in Victoria with a depth greater than 30cm are required to have a safety barrier or pool fence.

Visit http://www.vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/swimming-pools to ensure your pool complies.

If you need any further guidance in maintaining your property over summer, contact your local property manager today.