"5 Smart Maintenance Tips Every Philly Property Owner Should Know"
Let’s be honest: owning property in Philly is no small feat. Between the city’s unpredictable weather, historic buildings, and the occasional maintenance curveball, keeping your property in great shape can feel like a full-time job. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you’re a landlord, homeowner, or real estate investor, staying on top of maintenance doesn’t just protect your property—it also keeps your tenants happy and your wallet safe from unexpected expenses. As someone who works with property owners every day, I’ve seen how a little proactive care can go a long way.
Winter Is Coming—Get Ready Now
We all know Philly winters can be brutal. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures—it’s a recipe for maintenance nightmares if you’re not prepared. Trust me, the last thing you want is to deal with burst pipes or a broken heater in January.
Here’s how to stay ahead:
- Insulate your pipes: A little insulation can save you thousands in repair costs (Here’s a guide from the Red Cross on preventing frozen pipes).
- Service your HVAC system: Make sure your heating system is running smoothly before the cold hits (Energy.gov offers tips for maintaining heating systems).
- Clean out those gutters: Ice dams are no joke, and clogged gutters are their best friend (Angi explains why gutter cleaning is essential).
A little prep work now will save you from a lot of headaches (and tenant complaints) later.
Keep an Eye on Your Roof and Foundation
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen a small roof leak turn into a massive repair bill because it went unnoticed. Your roof and foundation are the backbone of your property, so keeping them in good shape is non-negotiable.
Here’s what to do:
- Check your roof regularly: After big storms, look for missing shingles or leaks (HomeAdvisor has tips on roof maintenance).
- Inspect your foundation: Even small cracks can lead to water damage or structural issues (https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/foundation-problems-know/).
- Seal windows and doors: Don’t let water (or Philly’s infamous humidity) sneak in (Bob Vila offers a great tutorial on sealing windows and doors).
Think of it like this—spending a little now on maintenance can save you from a financial nightmare down the road.
Communication Is Everything
If you’ve got tenants, this one’s a game-changer. Keeping the lines of communication open builds trust and makes your life easier. When tenants know they can rely on you, they’re more likely to stick around—and take care of the place.
Here’s what works:
- Set up a simple system for tenants to report maintenance issues (Buildium explains how to streamline tenant communications).
- Respond quickly—even if it’s just to say you’re on it.
- Schedule regular check-ins to catch small problems before they become big ones.
Happy tenants = fewer vacancies = less stress for you. It’s that simple.
Don’t Forget About Curb Appeal
Look, I know we’re not all aiming for a spot on HGTV, but a little effort on the outside goes a long way. Whether you’re attracting new tenants or keeping your current ones happy, curb appeal matters.
Here’s where to start:
- Tidy up the landscaping: Overgrown bushes and messy walkways aren’t a good look (This article from Better Homes & Gardens has simple landscaping ideas).
- Give it a fresh coat of paint: It’s amazing what a little paint can do for a property’s vibe (Check out this guide from Forbes on choosing exterior paint colors).
- Add some lighting: It’s practical, safe, and makes your property feel more inviting (Houzz shares tips on choosing outdoor lighting).
Your property is an investment—show it some love, and it’ll love you back.
Know When to Call in the Pros
Let’s be real: you can’t (and shouldn’t) do it all yourself. Partnering with a with a reliable property management team can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
At Built Different Properties, we specialize in making property ownership easier. Whether it’s routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or keeping tenants happy, we’ve got your back.
Here’s how we help:
- 24/7 emergency support: Because disasters don’t wait for business hours.
- Regular maintenance schedules: To keep your property in top shape.
- A dedicated team: That treats your property like their own.
Owning property should be rewarding, not exhausting. Let us handle the hard stuff so you can focus on what really matters.
Let’s Make Property Management Easier
At the end of the day, a little proactive maintenance and a trusted partner can make all the difference. If you’re tired of dealing with property headaches or just want some expert advice, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a free consultation—because your property deserves better, and so do you.
Built Different Properties: Where property management is done right, every time