It's a busy time to be a landlord in the Natural State. Demand across the state for rental homes has surged in recent years, with rents now growing at triple the national average.
People from across the region are drawn to places like Rogers, Arkansas, for affordable rents, spacious homes, and wholesome living in the heart of the Ozarks. However, with higher demand comes greater competition. That's why it's essential to take a serious and well-resourced approach to property maintenance.
Keeping your rentals in good condition will ensure a lower vacancy rate and help you maintain the value of your asset. The step is to figure out which property upkeep tasks are your responsibility, and which are the tenant's. Here's everything you need to know.
Tenant Responsibilities in Arkansas
Under Arkansas law, tenants must follow specific maintenance guidelines to keep rental homes safe and livable. Tenants are legally required to keep their living space clean, dispose of trash properly, and prevent damage beyond normal wear and tear.
This includes tasks like keeping plumbing fixtures clean, avoiding pest infestations, and notifying landlords of needed repairs promptly. Knowing these legal obligations can reduce misunderstandings and ensure smoother property management.
Optional Maintenance Responsibilities
Many landlords offer optional maintenance agreements to tenants as part of their lease terms. These agreements might cover tasks that go beyond legal responsibilities, such as lawn care or snow removal.
Offering optional services can incentivize tenants to participate in maintaining the property, improving its long-term value. Be clear about which tasks are optional and ensure agreements are outlined in the lease to avoid future disputes.
Routine Property Care Essentials
Helping tenants understand basic property care can prevent costly repairs. Simple routines like changing air filters and reporting leaks early can extend the lifespan of home systems. Consider sharing a checklist with tenants that includes:
- Replace HVAC filters
- Check smoke alarm batteries
- Report water leaks
- Clean gutters (if agreed upon)
- Maintain yard (if specified)
These simple steps can make a big difference in keeping your property in excellent shape.
A Property Maintenance Plan Brings Clarity
To ensure consistency, develop a property maintenance planning strategy that includes both landlord and tenant responsibilities. Establishing clear guidelines about repairs, emergency contacts, and service schedules keeps everyone on the same page.
Consider conducting regular property inspections and creating a shared maintenance calendar to track tasks. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of costly, unexpected repairs.
Your Property Maintenace Partners in Rogers, AR
Property maintenance is no mere box-ticking exercise. It's how you keep tenants happy and in place. It's how you protect and extend the value and lifespan of your portfolio.
With the right approach to maintenance, you can enjoy higher returns and build lasting wealth. However, getting it right requires time, resources, and connections. That's where we come in. At PMI Heritage, we take care of all maintenance on behalf of Rogers, Arkansas landlords.
We use our network of expert contractors to address maintenance quickly and for the best possible value. We'll even take care of all tenant communication, ensuring total compliance with state law. Get in touch to find out how we can help you, starting today.
