Jill Lloyd, area specialist in Claremont and sectors of Rondebosch for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, says: “Lack of upkeep and regular maintenance is not only costly down the line when avoidable major repairs are required, it can also be downright dangerous.”
She recounts a near-tragic personal experience: “We were between houses after I sold my own property and we rented a house in Bishopscourt for a few months and on the first night my daughter got a shock in the bathroom that could easily have killed her.
“It turned out the whole geyser and plumbing system was live and, as we all know, water and electricity don’t mix well. Fortunately, I was there and saved her but it could have ended very differently.”
She believes that not only should water and electrical components of rental properties be checked between tenants, especially where there are multiple tenants like student accommodation, rental homes should also be required to periodically apply for compliance certification.
“At the very least, tenants should have the right to request an electrical compliance certificate, especially if they have small kids where earth leakage is vital.”
Jenna Pietersen, rental agent for the Atlantic Seaboard and City Bowl office, agrees that regular maintenance is critical in attracting quality tenants, especially in a slow market.
“Recently I have struggled to let several stunning, well-priced properties that would have easily let if they were better maintained.
“Prospective tenants are spoilt for choice at the moment and properties that are well-maintained and visually appealing will always have the edge.”
She says that at the very least, landlords should give their properties a fresh coat of paint, especially after a long-term tenant has vacated and ensure the garden is neat and tidy and all the fittings and fixtures in the house are neat and in working order.
“As with a car, you have to keep your hand on it, otherwise small issues add up and you’ll pay way more towards maintenance than necessary in time.”
She offers landlords five top tips for remaining on top of their maintenance and reducing the risk of major repairs:
She adds that landlords should also bear in mind that if they show they care for their property by providing good quality finishes and fittings and maintain the property well, tenants will generally take better care of it and treat it more as their own.
Lloyd concludes: “A well cared for pristine home will almost always get a better rental and not only will regular maintenance add to the value of the investment, it is also a tax-deductible expense.”