Tips for Landlords: Safety Comes First
New to being a Landlord?
Or maybe you’ve been a landlord, but just purchased a new rental property.
Start right by following my
Ultimate Checklist
of
Essential Safety and Compliance Tips
Buying a rental property and becoming a landlord can be exciting. You’ve probably been preparing for this moment for a while now.
I doubt you’ve been dreaming of all the safety updates you need to make. Still, before you start changing the flooring, ripping down the horrid floral wallpaper, or installing those fabulous light fixtures, you must ensure your property is safe, legally compliant, and ready to welcome tenants.
Below is the list of 9 essential safety and compliance items I always review before leasing a new rental unit.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure all detectors are installed and functioning according to local regulations. Smoke and carbon monoxide regulations may differ regarding the required number of detectors, placement in specific rooms or levels, and whether the devices must be photoelectric, hardwired, battery-operated, or interconnected. Also, be sure to test each unit before each new tenant moves in.
Fire Safety: Make sure fire extinguishers are available and accessible, especially in the kitchen and near heating equipment. Specific requirements can vary by town or state, with some areas mandating specific types, placement on each floor, or annual inspections and maintenance. You can find out your local fire extinguisher regulations by checking with your town or state’s fire marshal's office or visiting your local government’s website. Also be sure to check that fire escapes and exits are free of obstructions and clearly marked.
Lead Paint and Asbestos: Lead paint and asbestos are of concern because they pose serious health risks; to understand state regulations, contact your local health department, and for federal guidelines, visit the EPA’s website.
Electrical and Plumbing Systems: When assessing safety and compliance in electrical and plumbing systems, you should check for outdated wiring, properly functioning circuit breakers, grounded outlets, and secure fixtures, as well as inspect plumbing for leaks, proper drainage, and compliant water heaters and shut-off valves.
Building Code Compliance: Worry about building code compliance before renting out a new property to ensure tenant safety, avoid legal penalties, and prevent costly repairs or liabilities. Specifically, consider the adequacy of fire exits, the integrity of structural elements like walls and foundations, the safety of staircases and railings, proper ventilation, and adherence to zoning laws. Ensuring these aspects are up to code protects both the tenants and the landlord's investment.
Structural Integrity: A landlord should consider structural integrity when going through a safety checklist because it directly impacts the safety and longevity of the property. Structural issues can lead to severe problems, such as collapsing walls or ceilings, which endanger tenants and result in costly repairs. When assessing structural integrity, you should look for cracks in walls or foundations, uneven floors, sagging roofs, and signs of water damage, which could indicate underlying weaknesses that need immediate attention.
Pest Control: Take the time to conduct a pest inspection and take preventative measures to ensure the property is free of infestations.
Landlord-Tenant Law Compliance: Familiarize yourself with local landlord-tenant laws, including disclosure requirements and habitability standards.
Security: Check that all doors and windows have secure locks, consider installing a security system as may be necessary, and provide tenants with information on how to report suspicious activity.
Remember, as a landlord, your first responsibility is to provide a safe living environment for your tenants. Safety and code standards exist for a reason! Ignoring these standards could lead to harm to your tenants, legal issues, or damage to your property. By following these 9 steps, you’ll not only protect your tenants and your investment but also build trust and a positive relationship with your renters.
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