People invest in real estate in multiple ways. One of the common ways to invest in real estate is to purchase properties and rent them out to tenants. As a landlord, you have a responsibility to make sure your properties are fit to live in. That means taking steps to prevent certain issues that can make your properties unhealthy to inhabit.

Issues That Can Make Your Properties Unhealthy to Inhabit: Rusty Pipes

Rusty pipes are a major problem in properties. Rust weakens your pipes and makes them more susceptible to blockages and leaks. If left unaddressed, that will lead to severe water damage. 

That can compromise the structural integrity of your properties, damage your tenants’ belongings, and lead to mold growth. The rust from pipes can also make the water harder. While hard water isn’t inherently dangerous, it can make life more uncomfortable.

Pest Infestations

Your properties are meant to provide shelter and safety for those within them. The challenge lies in ensuring that they’re only sheltering paying tenants, not pests. While the presence of an ant or spider here or there isn’t that big of a deal, full-blown pest infestations can be downright dangerous. Take mice for example. 

Mice often leave droppings and bad smells when they infest a property. They can carry diseases and spread illnesses, especially if they contaminate food. Not only that, but their propensity for gnawing on electrical wiring poses a fire hazard. React quickly to any reports of pest infestations to keep your properties safe and healthy for tenants.

Issues That Can Make Your Properties Unhealthy to Inhabit: Mold

Mold is gross, but it’s a bigger problem than just that. Ample moisture leads to mold growth which can lead to allergy symptoms including itching, coughing, wheezing, watery eyes, runny nose, headache, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Additionally, some mold releases mycotoxins which can lead to severe illness. People with respiratory conditions, those who are immunocompromised, the old, and the young tend to be the most vulnerable to illness brought on by mold exposure. Make sure the plumbing in your properties is in good condition and that your properties have adequate ventilation to reduce the risk of mold growth.

Regular property maintenance and upkeep are critical responsibilities for landlords. These things keep properties in good condition so they can be safely lived in. It’s not easy to keep up with cleaning maintenance if you don’t have a plan. Create a schedule for different maintenance tasks so you can keep on top of them throughout the year. That way your properties will remain safe to live in and their value will be preserved.

Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more to read. Property Improvements That Pay for Themselves

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