As you consider renting your home or investment property, you need to keep in mind the term “Normal Wear and Tear”. It’s not often that a tenant will maintain a property as well as the homeowner. Regardless of how meticulous owners or tenants are in maintaining the property, they cannot escape “normal wear and tear.”
Some examples of “Normal Wear and Tear” are:
1. Scuff marks on walls, trim, woodwork, flooring and doors
2. Minor scratches and dings on appliances
3. Overgrown trees and large shrubs
4. Minor stains and visible wear and tear on carpeting in traffic areas
5. Picture hangers (hooks, small nails, molly or other anchors)
6. Deterioration/staining of caulking (kitchen and baths)
7. Loose fixtures (towel bars, toilet paper holders etc) & loose door knobs/locks
The goal is to protect and preserve your property in a condition that represents how you left it, taking into account normal wear and tear. It is important for you to avoid unreasonable expectations about the continuing condition of your property when placed in the care of a tenant.
Keep in mind that not all tenants keep the property looking like the cover of Good Housekeeping. Please remember, normal wear and tear happens to all properties. Carpet, flooring, paint (interior and exterior), appliances, and roofs all deteriorate/age and require periodic maintenance and replacement.
You will be receiving thousands of dollars in rental income. The more consideration you give to upkeep of the property, the more appealing the property is to new tenants and in retaining current tenants.
Please contact TAG Home Management with any questions or management you may have! We are happy to help!