So you’re thinking about becoming a landlord? Or maybe you already are one, and you’re looking for ways to improve your properties. Either way, there are a few things you should always inspect before putting your house on the rental market. Here are six commonly neglected house fixtures that every landlord should check before launching.

1. Water Heater

One of the most important-and often overlooked-fixtures in a rental property is the water heater. A bad water heater can cause many problems for tenants, from lack of hot water to flooding. That’s why it’s crucial to inspect the water heater on a regular basis and have it serviced by a professional if necessary.

For instance, if the water heater is more than a few years old, it’s probably time for a replacement. You should also check for signs of rust or leaks, which can indicate that the water heater is on its last legs. If you need help with what to look for, consider hiring a professional inspector to give your property a once-over before you list it for rent.

In addition, make sure you understand how the water heater works and how to turn it off in case of an emergency. This is especially important if you have a gas water heater, as a gas leak could be very dangerous.

2. Smoke Alarms

In most jurisdictions, smoke alarms are required by law, but they must still be in good working order. Make sure to test all the smoke alarms in your rental property on a regular basis and replace any batteries as needed. It’s also a good idea to have spare batteries on hand in case of an emergency.

For example, if there’s a fire in the property, the last thing you want is for the smoke alarm to be dead. In addition, check to make sure the smoke alarms are correctly mounted on the walls or ceilings and that nothing is blocking them.

Fire extinguishers are another vital safety precaution that landlords should consider, although they’re not required by law in most places. However, if you choose to provide fire extinguishers, ensure they’re properly serviced and up to date.

3. Faucets

Leaky faucets are not only annoying, but they can also waste a lot of water and money. That’s why it’s important to inspect all the faucets in your rental property on a regular basis and have them repaired or replaced as necessary.

For instance, a dripping faucet can often be fixed by simply replacing the washer. However, a faucet replacement may be needed if the fixture is old or damaged. You should consider doing this before putting your property on the rental market.

In addition, make sure all the faucets in your rental property are in good working order and that there are no leaks. This includes checking under the sinks and in the bathrooms to ensure that there are no water leaks.

4. Furnace

The furnace is another crucial fixture in a rental property-especially during winter. Make sure to have the furnace inspected by a professional before putting your property on the market, and be sure to keep up with regular maintenance throughout the year.

You can avoid costly repairs down the road by keeping your furnace in good working order. In addition, you’ll need to ensure the furnace is properly vented to prevent any safety hazards.

Finally, be sure to provide your tenants with instructions on how to use the furnace and turn it off in an emergency. For instance, if there’s a gas leak, the tenants should know how to shut off the gas and ventilate the area.

5. Air Conditioner

Similarly, the air conditioner is an important fixture to maintain during summer. Have it inspected by a professional before listing your property, and be sure to keep up with regular maintenance after that. Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your air conditioner and prevent costly breakdowns during peak usage periods.

As with the furnace, be sure to provide your tenants with instructions on how to use the air conditioner and turn it off in an emergency.

In addition, make sure the air conditioner is appropriately sized for the space. An undersized unit will have to work harder to cool the area, and an oversized unit will cool the room too quickly, resulting in wasted energy.

6. Gutters

Gutters may not seem like an important fixture, but they play a crucial role in preventing water damage to your property. Be sure to clean out your gutters regularly and repair any leaks as soon as possible. Neglecting your gutters can lead to expensive repairs down the road, so staying on top is essential.

In addition, make sure the gutters are correctly installed and in good repair. This includes checking for loose gutter brackets and ensuring the gutters are correctly attached to the roof.

Finally, be sure to keep an eye on trees and shrubs near your gutters. Overhanging branches can clog your gutters and cause damage, so trim them back as needed.

As a landlord, it’s essential to inspect all fixtures in your rental property regularly. Doing so can prevent costly repairs down the road and provide your tenants with a safe and comfortable place to live. Remember these six commonly neglected fixtures next time you inspect your property-you’ll be glad you did!