You might already know that landlords are responsible for reasonable wear and tear on the property. But what classes as "reasonable" can be subjective, even though the law does provide some guidelines.
Clogged drains, broken appliances, and structural issues - solving these can swiftly become a full-time job. And, if you're about to hire a property manager, it's only right to know how they're going to help you with all the hard work that comes with rental property management.
These professionals promise to handle repairs efficiently while ensuring compliance with legal regulations. Here's a snapshot of how they assist your maintenance operations.
Are Property Managers Responsible for Repairs?
Generally, property maintenance expenses fall on the owner of the rental properties. This includes repairs for wear and tear, faulty appliances, leaky roofs, broken windows, and other similar issues. However, the extent of this responsibility can change based on the lease terms.
In some cases, the property manager might pay upfront, only for the property owner to reimburse them later. But this is usually not what happens. Most property managers oversee the process but don't pay for it themselves unless specified in the contract.
Tenant's Repair Responsibilities in Huntsville, AL
If damage to the rental property is due to tenants' actions, they may be responsible for the cost of repairs. Examples of such instances include:
A tenant breaks a window
Blockages resulting from improper toilet use
Damages caused by pets
In these cases, the tenant must shoulder the expenses to fix those issues.
In addition, other responsibilities fall under the scope of the tenants. They must ensure the safe disposal of all waste, and they should use electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems within the bounds of normal operation. Tenants must also avoid causing intentional harm to the property.
Another critical obligation is that tenants must report any damage to their landlord or property manager. Prompt reporting helps avoid further damage and allows for necessary repairs to occur on time.
Property Manager's Responsibilities
Property managers act as the go-between for rental property owners and tenants. This relationship with tenants is vital for timely reporting and repair of any damage.
The property manager must notify the property owner of the necessary repairs. They also coordinate with the professionals who will handle the repairs.
Besides this, they ensure the property is in good condition, find and screen tenants, handle rent collection, and deal with any problems that come up.
Enhancing Rental Property Management for Prompt Repairs
Property managers manage the repairs, property owners pay for them, and tenants can sometimes foot the bill when it's their fault. Remember, this can vary based on the lease terms. It is crucial for all - property managers, owners, and tenants - to understand their responsibilities so the rental unit stays in habitable condition.
At PMI North Alabama, we work with all parties involved to ensure prompt repairs that keep the unit in good condition. We've been maintaining Alabama properties for over 20 years. If you need better rental property management, contact us today to preserve your units.