Tips For Caring For The Apartment Complex You Manage
If you manage an apartment complex you don't want to neglect any areas. If you do accidentally let something go overlooked for longer than it should, then you can find yourself right in the middle of a large and costly mess. This is why it's good to have a checklist to follow for your residential property management. That way, you know you aren't leaving anything out when you are watching after the complex. Also, you should insist anyone who works for you also have their own list to follow, so things don't end up going downward on their end. Now, you can even have your smart phone or other device linked up with your calendar so you can get reminders sent right to you. Here are some of the things that you should stay on top of routinely:
Make sure all outside lights are in working order
Have someone take a walk around the complex weekly during nighttime hours to make sure none of the lights need replacing. If you leave an area unlit, then it can lead to one of your residents falling. It can also become an area for mischief, since it will offer an area others can't see clearly.
Make sure the parking lot is in good shape
Walk around the parking area at least once a month to make sure the parking lot is in good shape and there aren't areas cracking or developing potholes. If there are, then you should have them taken care of. This kind of damage can also be a sign that it's time to have the parking lot resealed.
Make sure all smoke detectors are in good working order
Go around and press the button on all the smoke detectors in the common areas to make sure they beep to let you know they are still working. Replace the batteries immediately if one or more of them don't beep. Also, remind your tenants to do the same thing regularly. Normally, a smoke detector starts regularly beeping for at least a few days to let you know the batteries are wearing out, but this isn't something you want to 100% count on.
Check the fencing and gates for repair needs
If your complex has a fence or gate, walk the perimeter of it regularly to make sure there are no holes in it and that the gates are all in working order. A fence or gate in need of repair allows people and dogs to walk right on the property and it makes the property look less cared for.
Check the plumbing
Make sure the plumbing systems to the laundry room, sprinklers and everywhere else you have access to are checked for signs of leaks and have them tended to before they become worse problems. Also, if you notice any mysterious pools of water around the grounds, have a plumber come out to make sure it isn't being caused from an underground leak.
