Owning an investment property in Brisbane is a smart move, but keeping it in excellent shape requires ongoing attention. Regular preventative maintenance can save you from expensive repairs, help retain tenants, and maintain the overall value of your property.
These maintenance tips will ensure your Brisbane property continues to perform well in the rental market.
Air Conditioning Servicing
Brisbane’s hot, humid climate means air conditioning is a necessity for most tenants. After a long summer of heavy use, it’s wise to get your air conditioning units serviced to keep them running smoothly. Regular servicing will help avoid breakdowns during the next heatwave and keep your tenants comfortable. We regularly work with DC Air for servicing air conditioners locally, and find them to be very fair in pricing.
Gutter Cleaning
Brisbane’s wet season can cause gutters to fill up with leaves and debris, leading to water overflow and damage to your roof and walls. By cleaning out your gutters before the rainy season starts, you can prevent these issues and avoid costly repairs. It’s a simple step that protects your property from the impacts of summer storms.
Pest Control
With Brisbane’s warm weather, pests such as ants, cockroaches, and termites are common. Scheduling regular pest control treatments can prevent infestations before they start. This not only ensures a better living experience for tenants but also meets the requirements of Queensland’s rental laws, which state that properties must be kept free from pests and vermin. We work closely with the team at Your Local Termite and Pest Control to keep our rental properties free of pests.
Water Leak Checks
Even small water leaks can lead to bigger problems if they’re not addressed. Regularly check taps, toilets, and outdoor hoses for any signs of leaks. Fixing them early can help you avoid higher water bills and prevent damage to your property. Any time we send a plumber to your property, we will ask them to check other areas while they’re on site, to avoid call out fees in the future. The team at Pasfield Plumbing are excellent at helping keep your property’s plumbing secure.
Outdoor Area Inspections
Brisbane’s harsh sun and occasional storms can take a toll on outdoor areas like decks, fences, and pathways. Look for signs of wear and tear, and make repairs as needed. Regularly maintaining these areas ensures they stay safe and attractive for tenants. Keeping your outdoor spaces in good condition can also improve your property’s overall appeal.
Small Improvements to Increase Rental Returns
Aside from maintenance, small upgrades can increase the attractiveness of your property and justify a higher rent. Consider these practical upgrades:
- Ceiling Fans: Installing ceiling fans is an affordable way to keep your property cool and energy-efficient. Tenants appreciate these small touches, and they can make your property more appealing without significant expense.
- Outdoor Space Upgrades: Brisbane’s lifestyle is all about outdoor living. By adding a simple BBQ area or updating your outdoor furniture, you can make the property more inviting and potentially charge higher rent.
- Energy-Efficient Changes: Energy-efficient upgrades such as LED lighting or solar panels can reduce utility costs for tenants. This is a strong selling point for environmentally conscious renters, making your property stand out in a competitive market.
- Fresh Paint: A fresh coat of paint can refresh the look of your property, both inside and out. Neutral colours are always a safe bet and can make your property look cleaner and more modern, helping it attract attention in rental listings.
- Security Enhancements: Tenants want to feel safe, and adding security screens or upgrading locks can give your property a competitive edge. Tenants are often willing to pay more for a property that offers added peace of mind.
Complying with Queensland’s Rental Standards
As a property owner in Brisbane, it’s important to ensure that your investment meets the minimum housing standards set by Queensland law. These standards focus on safety, security, and liveability, and they will become mandatory by 2024. Regular maintenance is key to staying compliant. According to the Residential Tenancies Authority, by this year, “the property must meet minimum housing standards when the tenant moves in and throughout the tenancy agreement.” Ensuring your property remains well-maintained now can save you from the stress of last-minute compliance updates.
Need Some More Advice?
Taking a proactive approach to maintaining your Brisbane investment property can save you from unexpected costs and keep your tenants happy. Regular tasks like air conditioning servicing, gutter cleaning, and pest control are simple ways to ensure your property remains in good condition. Additionally, making small improvements such as energy-efficient upgrades or enhancing outdoor spaces can help you attract better tenants and command higher income.
For more advice on managing your Brisbane investment property or to find out how Homescope can help, visit us at Homescope.