In this blog, you’ll be able to find 6 large projects for your rental property. If you’re looking for updates that will attract more tentants, keep on reading!

Project #1 Roofing

Depending of the type of roof, your roof could last anywhere from 20-50 years. Re roofing is a big project and can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If you’re interested in getting estimates, please let us know and we can send some trusted vendors to your property.

Project #2 HVAC System

Air conditioning systems can last 10-15 years, but should be regularly serviced. Tenants are instructed to change filters on a regular basis, but a more thorough service may be beneficial to you. Furnaces and heating systems can last 15-20 years. If you need to upgrade, there are new energy efficient options you can consider for your property.

Project #3 Windows

Aluminum windows are normally expected to last 15-20 years. New windows can help by reducing energy costs, attracting better tenants, and keeping your property secure. For a detailed estimate to replace windows, please contact us. This type of project can be done all at once or one window at a time.

Project #4 Water Heater

Normally water heaters will last about 10 years. If your water is nearing this age, expect it to go out soon. If a water heater begins to leak, it could cause a potential plumbing emergency which will cost extra. You may want to consider replacing your water heater before it completely goes out. Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular, but there are pros and cons to both types. Contact us if you want to discuss this project further.

Project #5 Flooring

Wood floors can last for decades. Tile floors can also last a very long time if they are treated well. Vinyl can last up to 30 years, linoleum up to 25 years, and laminate about 15-25 years. Carpets usually need to be replaced every 8 years if they’re treated well. If tenants damage flooring, they will be charged a prorated amount to replace it.

Project #6 Appliances

As an owner, you shouldn’t expect an appliance to last more than 15 years.

If you need help with your Property Management, check out our website: upliftpm.com or don’t hesitate on contacting us!

Why Upgrade Your Unit?

Upgrading units in various ways can steadily improve your rental property and increase the value of your rental property! If you are hoping to increase the rent, updating and upgrading is a great way to do that. Nicer units will also attract better tenants who will stay longer and take care of your unit like their own.

Here are some suggestions for how you can make improvements to your rental property:

New Paint

At Uplift Property Management, we expect the paint in a rental unit to last for 3 years under normal wear and tear. When tenants are looking for units to rent, paint is a very obvious thing and having new paint can help your unit rent quicker. 

New Flooring

Instead of carpet, we can use a wood grain vinyl, a vinyl plank, or even tile. These all last much longer than carpet and are easier to maintain. Tenants love flooring without carpet and can always lay down rugs in areas they want.

Updated Appliances

Replacing old appliances can add a lot of value to your rental property. You can replace your existing appliances with stainless steel units to make them pop even more. We work with vendors who can supply us with good deals on units and sets, so please contact us if you are interested in upgrading.

Refinishing Countertops or Tubs

If you have older, chipped counters or bathtubs, consider refinishing them. Refinishing will give the counter or tub new life for minimal cost and most companies will warranty the work done for 3-5 years.

New Blinds

You unit will rent much more easily and quickly if you have working blinds in each window. 

Professional Services

If your rental property includes a pool or landscaping, we highly suggest you hire someone to take care of the landscape maintenance or pool service. This will ensure that your pool or landscaping stays in good condition during the tenancy.

Quarter-Turn Angle Stops

Many plumbing problems can come from old or broken angle stops. To prevent issues, we recommend installing newer quarter-turn angle stops so that the likelihood of a plumbing issue is less. 

Pressure Regulator

Sometimes a pressure regulator is suggested to make sure the water pressure in your unit is not too high. High water pressure can be the cause of many plumbing issues including burst pipes, pinhole leaks, shower/sink cartridges failing, supply lines and angle stops failing, etc. 

Smartlock Deadbolts

At Uplift Property Management, we use Kwikset’s Smartkey system to make rekeying between tenants fast and easy. We suggest this on some, but not all out rental properties. We normally make this upgrade during our turn process since it proves to be cheaper than using a locksmith each time. Before changing any of your locks, contact us for more information.

How Can Uplift Help?

Uplift Property Management provides coordination for any upgrades or remodels you may want to complete. We have a long list of approved vendors that can provide estimates and do the work. This coordination is included for free with our full property management services. We can gather information, send multiple vendors for estimates, present those to you for approval, and schedule and coordinate the work to be done. If you have any questions about the process of making any upgrades or completing remodels, please contact us.

Safety inspections are normally done annually (and can be done biannually) to make sure units are safe and secure. After the first safety inspection (included with the flat fee from Uplift Property Management), we work with outside vendors to complete these safety inspections. These inspections are completed 90-120 days before the lease ends so that we can determine whether or not to extend the lease term. Contact us to find out how much safety inspections would be for you rental unit(s).

The following things are checked during safety inspections:

• Doors and locks.
• Windows, screens, and window covers.
• Toilets, sinks, tubs, washers, and all plumbing fixtures to make sure supply lines, drain pipes, and all plumbing is working correctly without any leaks.
• Appliances to make sure they are running properly, not leaking, and in good condition.
• HVAC system to make sure the heater and AC are working properly.
• Smoke detectors and CO detector(s)
• Lights, switches, and outlets to make sure there are no potential electrical issues.
• General condition of the property and whether it is being taken care of.
• Potential maintenance issues that may come up in the future.
• Preventative maintenance suggestions that are noticed.

Please contact us if you have any questions about safety inspections.

Uplift Property Management has developed a minimum property standard for all rental units. We hope that these standards will help give the property a competitive advantage in the market, reduce liability and potential costs from deferred maintenance, and provide a safe and comfortable home for tenants. 

When we inspect your unit(s), we will look for the standards below and make suggestions and recommendations accordingly. There are certain standards that must be upheld so that the unit is habitable and up to California code. 

To make this process easier for our vendors and office, we often use a Make Ready Checklist. At the bottom of this page, you can open and download a Make Ready Checklist to help you while getting your unit ready to rent.

Please contact us if you have any questions about getting your unit ready to rent.

Habitability Standards in California

1. Effective waterproofing and weather protection of roof and exterior walls, including unbroken windows and doors. 
2. Well-maintained plumbing and gas facilities compliant with law in effect at the time of installation
3. Water supply compliant with applicable law that is capable of producing hot and cold running water, furnished to appropriate fixtures, and connected to a sewage disposal system approved under applicable law.
4. Well-maintained heating facilities compliant with applicable law at the time of installation
5. Well-maintained electrical lighting compliant with applicable law at the time of installation
6. Building, grounds, and appurtenances kept sanitary and free from debris and vermin at the time of rent or lease
7. Sufficient number of receptacles for garbage
8. Floors, stairways, and railings maintained in good repair.
9. A mail receptacle for each residential unit
10. Locks conforming to code [CA Civil Code Sec. 1941.3]
    • Deadbolt lock on each main swinging entry door
    • Window security or locking devices for windows capable of being opened
11. Smoke and CO detectors as needed to be in compliance with California code.
    • Smoke detectors (10 year sealed battery) in each bedroom, in each hallway/common entryway to the bedrooms, and on each floor.
    • CO detectors are required if there are any gas lines in or neighboring the unit. If your unit has a gas powered water heater, stove, or heater, there must be a CO detector. If your unit runs exclusively on gas but is next door to a unit/room (i.e. common laundry room) that uses gas, your unit must have a CO detector.

Uplift Property Management Minimum Standards

1. Window Screens. All windows must have working screens. The screen frames should not be bent and the screens should be free of holes or tears. 
2. If air conditioning is advertised as being provided with the unit, it must be in working condition and it will also need to be kept in working order throughout the tenancy. If the air conditioning unit does not function, we cannot advertise the unit with AC.
3. Unit must be free of mold and all leaks (whether water or gas). 
4. Unit must be free of all personal belongings. Uplift Property Management does not keep track or manage personal belongings. Any personal items left behind will be reported back to you. However, if anything is left in the unit, the tenant cannot be held responsible for any damage. 

Highly Recommended

The following items can add value to your rental property and help it to rent at a higher rate. They also can potentially prevent future issues.

1. New Paint. At Uplift Property Management, we expect the paint in a rental unit to last for 3 years under normal wear and tear. When tenants are looking for units to rent, paint is a very obvious thing and having new paint can help your unit rent quicker. 
2. Working Blinds. You unit will rent much more easily and quickly if you have working blinds in each window. 
3. Quarter-Turn Angle Stops. Many plumbing problems can come from old or broken angle stops. To prevent issues, we recommend installing newer quarter-turn angle stops so that the likelihood of a plumbing issue is less. 
4. Pressure Regulator. Sometimes a pressure regulator is suggested to make sure the water pressure in your unit is not too high. High water pressure can be the cause of many plumbing issues including burst pipes, pinhole leaks, shower/sink cartridges failing, supply lines and angle stops failing, etc. 
5. Smartlock Deadbolts. At Uplift Property Management, we use Kwikset’s Smartkey system to make rekeying between tenants fast and easy. We suggest this on some, but not all our rental properties. Before changing any of your locks, contact us for more information.

Let Us Help You

Uplift Property Management knows how to get units ready to rent. Call us or send us a message so we can help you with your make ready. We will provide a free rental analysis and come to you in person when you’re available. 

Explore our website to see the many ways we can help you with your property goals.