It’s every landlords dream that when they rent out a property it is returned to them in exactly the same state. At least if there is some damage to the property they hope the tenants bond will cover it and their nice little investment will continue looking pristine forever. What most landlords don’t take into account is wear and tear on a property whilst it is being tenanted, and what exactly that means for them.
It is important for landlords to understand the difference between damage to a property and wear and tear on a property. Take carpets for example. Damage would include the tenant spilling red wine on the carpet whereas wear and tear would occur over a period of a few years and can include things like bare patches, discoloration, or evidence of foot traffic.
Some more examples may include;
Damage:
- Hole in the wall
- Big rip in carpet
- Dents in the doors
- Broken window
Wear and Tear
- Scuff marks on walls
- Small scratches or paint chips on walls
- Rust (especially on coastal properties)
- Broken clips on curtains
One of the main reasons landlords confuse damage with wear and tear is because after leasing the property they don’t see it again until the end of the tenants lease. This is why property managers conduct regular inspections and strive to keep landlords as up to date as possible on the condition of their property.
Whilst damage to the property is the tenant’s responsibility to repair, wear and tear to a property is the owner’s responsibility to manage. It must also be taken into consideration that any rental property with tenants moving in or out once or twice a year, is going to show more signs of wear and tear than a property that is owner occupied.
If you have an investment property and have been leasing it for a number of years be prepared to replace the carpet or apply some touch up paint to the walls. Keeping the property presentable is key to keeping vacancy rates low and making sure your overall return on investment remains high.
Brought to you by Tony Nash – RE/MAX Property Associates Sunshine Coast
Phone Tony and his team today on 07 5452 4545
www.rentaladvice.com.au
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