Ensuring the safety and comfort of tenants is paramount when it comes to maintaining a rental property. While it might appear to be a straightforward task, we often overlook the fundamentals of keeping a property in good condition. In this article, we provide valuable insights for maintaining your rental property in optimal condition.
Rental property maintenance
The Madrid Housing Information Office has developed a report outlining recommendations for property maintenance. However, we believe that these guidelines fall short in many aspects.
Most of our property owners lease their spaces to students and professionals, utilizing either the LAU leasing contract or seasonal contracts.
Occasionally, we receive negative feedback concerning tenants, particularly related to property maintenance.
This guide is primarily directed towards tenants, but also extends to property owners, with the intention of fostering a positive relationship between both parties.
The process is neither complex nor overwhelming. In fact, many situations can be resolved through the application of common sense. Sometimes, even the most obvious solutions elude our attention.
Guidelines before signing the rental contract
1. If you’re about to rent a property, consider researching the owner, whether an individual or a company, on social media platforms. Check if there have been any conflicts with previous tenants. Exclude unethical or troublesome landlords from your list, or better yet, seek assistance from a specialized agency that evaluates property owners.
2. If you’re sharing the property with others, ensure that the rental contract includes the contact information of all tenants, including phone numbers and email addresses of both the landlord and tenants. Neglecting this step places the signer under the full burden, while in reality, risk should be shared.
3. Property owners should possess a home insurance, and it’s advisable for the policy details to be outlined in the rental contract. Absence of insurance can lead to significant disputes in case of substantial incidents. If you’re the owner, including these specifics in the contract ensures that tenants can readily access assistance during emergencies.
Initial recommendations for rental property maintenance
6. Monitor water and electricity meter readings, and familiarize yourself with their locations. If unsure, inquire about these details during your initial days in the property.
Ongoing maintenance advice
11. Comply with non-smoking clauses in the lease agreement. Smoke odors can permeate walls, necessitating deep cleaning or even repainting.
Daily rental property maintenance
12. Avoid attaching items to walls using hooks, tacks, or tapes, regardless of packaging claims. Detaching these items can cause damage, hinting at inadequate maintenance.
13. Uphold cleanliness, especially in the kitchen. Hygiene is pivotal in preventing pests and cockroaches. Likewise, maintain clean floors.
14. For properties with laminate or floating wood floors, avoid excessive moisture. If the floor gets wet, dry it immediately to prevent deformation or lifting.
15. If your property boasts natural wood flooring, avoid placing the mop directly on it, as this could lead to staining. Use protective materials to prevent damage and the need for refinishing.
16. Shower blockages are often due to accumulated hair. Supermarket-available “gel uncloggers” can help, while persistent issues require a plumber’s intervention due to the risks associated with chemical use.
17. For hot beverages, like tea, use coasters when placing them on surfaces. Some countertops can’t withstand high temperatures.
18. Implement a proper waste disposal strategy. Avoid leaving garbage outside your door unless there’s a designated collection protocol.
19. Regularly inspect your water heater. Leaking could signify impending failure.
20. When using oils while cooking, exercise caution and stay attentive, especially if you’re not an experienced cook.
21. Avoid using “Aguafuerte” to clean metal sinks, as it can corrode them, necessitating replacement.
22. After showering, ensure the bathroom is properly ventilated to prevent mold growth on walls.
23. If you notice strange spots or unusual noises, either by contacting the landlord or a specialist.
24. In spaces prone to slipping, avoid walking barefoot to prevent accidents.
25. If your water heater has a thermostat, set it below 120F or 48C to minimize risks.
Property maintenance and utility consumption
26. Never underestimate water consumption. Even though water is affordable, reasonable use may cost between 15€ and 30€ per month.
27. Electricity costs in Spain rank among Europe’s highest. Therefore, minimize leaving devices turned on unnecessarily.
Turn off air conditioning when not at home and maintain temperatures between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius in summer.
Be aware that air conditioners and electric heaters are significant energy consumers. Research Madrid’s electricity price for more information.
28. During summer, set your air conditioning to around 28 degrees celsius for moderate consumption.
In winter, maintain indoor temperatures around 24 or 22 degrees Celsius. A quality duvet can effectively save energy during sleep.
Without caution, monthly energy bills can easily exceed 200€.
29. Internet costs vary by provider but tend to be decreasing. Typically, even with the most expensive provider, the cost shouldn’t exceed 45€, though much cheaper options are available.
Maintenance when traveling
30. Before embarking on a trip, ensure that you lock the door properly, utilizing the deadbolt. Leaving the latch only can expose your property to potential theft.
31. It’s wise to provide a spare key to a trustworthy person. Tenants lose keys over 10 times a year, and emergencies can arise during your absence.
32. Avoid labeling your keys with your home address, as this makes it easier for thieves in case of loss.
33. If you’re planning an extended absence, consider turning off water and electricity supplies. Don’t forget to keep the refrigerator light on if it has a separate switch.
Rent payment tips
34. As a tenant, ensure you adhere to the rental payment schedule stipulated in the contract, preferably within the first week.
Avoid straining your relationship with the landlord. Even if challenges arise, late payment could lead to eviction.
Furthermore, defaulting on payment could trigger repercussions beyond your tenancy, especially for foreign tenants.
35. Additionally, ensure that the final two months of rent are not left unpaid, despite the temptation to use the security deposit for this purpose. This is clearly regulated by law and constitutes a breach of contract. The consequences of this action can outweigh any perceived gains.
Other aspects to consider in rental property maintenance
36. If you have young children or they are visiting, it’s vital to place cleaning products out of their reach. Remove artificial fruits, vegetables, and food-shaped magnets, as they could appear edible to them.
37. Avoid installing locks on bathroom doors or locking them while in use. This can impede assistance during emergencies such as fires or accidents. Keeping the door accessible is crucial.
38. For properties with fireplaces, never leave children or individuals with disabilities unattended near the fire. If you’ve ignited the fireplace, don’t leave after adding wood.
39. Keep a flashlight handy or use your phone’s flashlight. During power outages, avoid tampering with the electrical panel and maintain your composure.
40. When leaving the property, make sure to close the windows. Rain can cause damage, and windows can break due to strong winds. Moreover, this reduces the risk of break-ins.
41. If children are present, avoid leaving them alone with pencils or crayons. Instances have occurred where children have scribbled on various furniture and walls, creating challenges for repair.
In conclusion, following these guidelines will help you prevent common mistakes in rental property maintenance.
Our accommodations and services for tenants and property owners
If you’re a tenant or seeking accommodation, we offer listings categorized by type: a corporate apartment list, apartments and rooms for students list, and holidays apartments near Serrano street and Paseo de la Castellana in Escultor Building.
For property owners interested in knowing us better, feel free to contact our property owners department.
