Preparing Your Property For Rent

A property that has been well prepared for renting has a good chance at fetching a higher rent and better quality tenants without being too much more work from the beginning.

So what steps do you need to take prior to renting out your property?

1) If it is currently broken, fix it.

While as the owner of a property you might choose to live in a home that needs repairs while you save to undertake a renovation. Tenants who are paying for the privilege of living in your property, rightfully expect that everything should be in a state of good repair.

Make sure that you check that none of the taps or toilets leak, ensure that all of the doors close and lock as they should. Make sure that kitchen appliances are in good working order and that all electrical outlets are safe and functioning properly.

2) If it’s dirty, clean it.

A tenant has the responsibility of ensuring that the property is maintained in the state in which they found it, but they are not responsible for improving the condition of your property. By ensuring that your property is clean by checking that bathroom & kitchen grout and silicon is not mouldy, curtains & blinds, fans, walls, ceilings nd the oven are all washed and wiped as required, you will not only be ensuring that you have a happy tenant, but you will also be setting the standard for the state of cleanliness your property is left in when your tenant vacates.
Going the extra mile your carpets have been professionally cleaned is also a great idea.

3) Consider the state of your current appliances and upgrade if required

Features like dishwashers are often sought after, however, a dishwasher that is nearing the end of its life and functions poorly is likely to cause tenant frustration and expense for you! If you don’t currently have a dishwasher, but there is space, perhaps consider investing in one. If there is currently a dishwasher/oven/cooktop, but it is in poor condition, consider replacing it now, to prevent leaving your tenant without later.

4) Ensure that there are no pests

Having your home checked for termites and treated to ensure there are no creepy crawlies is a great idea prior to renting it. As per the RTA QLD, provided that there are no pests prior to your tenant moving in, they are responsible for ensuring that this maintenance is done throughout their tenancy and when they vacate.

5) Ensure that your property meets required standards

You need to ensure that your property meets the required standards for water efficiency & fire safety - with the right kind of smoke detectors, that any pools or spas are fenced according to current legislation and that balconies and veranda railing meet safety standards. It’s a great idea to speak with your property manager to confirm, specific to your property, what may need to be upgraded. The RTA QLD website outlines the requirements of rental properties in Queensland.

6) Update your insurance

Once you are no longer living in the property, you will need to ensure that you let your insurance company know. Furthermore, it is a great idea to consider landlord insurance which covers you for unforeseen circumstances relating to your tenants, such as if they damage or destroy your property, and in some circumstances, helping to cover you if they leave without paying all the rent you’re owed.