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The Preventative Maintenance Checklist for All San Francisco Landlords
BanCal Property Management • October 1, 2021
How to Avoid Expensive Emergency Repairs
Renting out a San Francisco property means being ready for the unexpected; whether it’s a leak below the kitchen sink or an appliance that’s outlived its use. Responding to routine and emergency maintenance requests from your tenants comes with the territory.
Those unexpected emergencies can get expensive, however. They’re also disruptive and frustrating for both owners and tenants.
The best way to avoid expensive emergencies? We’ve found it’s a good preventative maintenance plan. Here are some of the things we recommend.
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE SAVES MONEY
We know that maintenance costs are rising, and one good way to get out ahead of those climbing costs is with a preventative maintenance plan. You’ll save money on emergencies, increase tenant retention, and preserve the condition of your San Francisco investment property.
1. START WITH THE HVAC SYSTEM
Our climate has always been pretty mild, but lately we’ve had ridiculously cold winter days and some real scorchers in the summer. Your tenants are using both the heat and the air conditioning, and that means your system has to be functional and efficient. It’s one of the most important and expensive parts of your property - you need reliability.
By contracting with a local HVAC technician, you can have your unit inspected and serviced annually. This may cost a couple hundred dollars, but it will save you thousands on having to replace a furnace or an air conditioning unit prematurely.
2. DON’T PUT OFF THE PLUMBING PROBLEMS
A dripping faucet or a toilet that’s flushing funny is easy to put off. These don’t seem like urgent repairs. However, the longer you leave a leaking pipe, the bigger the plumbing emergency is likely to be in a week or a month.
Don’t invite larger and more expensive disasters. Take care of plumbing issues right away. When your tenants report that something is wet, discolored, leaking, or dripping - get a plumber out there right away. When you’re
inspecting the property during tenant turnovers, always check under sinks and behind toilets. Keep the caulking around tubs and tiles fresh.
Water problems left unattended can lead to rot and mold, which will only increase what you have to spend to make the necessary repairs and replacements. Always be proactive and preventative when it comes to water in your San Francisco rental property.
3. REPLACING VS. REPAIRING YOUR RENTAL HOME APPLIANCES
Upgrading your appliances is a great way to
attract better tenants, retain your current tenants, and increase your rental value.
It’s also a good part of preventative maintenance. Instead of repairing the dishwasher or the refrigerator every time there’s a problem, know when to replace it instead. Energy efficient appliances are going to perform better than the older models, and you’ll have fewer repair calls from tenants.
Train and Educate your Tenants on Preventative Maintenance
Protecting the condition of your property takes a combined effort from owners, tenants, and property managers. Make sure your residents know you want all maintenance issues reported right away. Don’t let any repairs get deferred or unreported.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
The best way to take care of preventative maintenance is by working with a
San Francisco property management company. At BanCal Property Management, we’ve been maintaining rental investments since 1987. We can make sure your property is in great shape, and we’ll save you money while we’re doing it.
What makes tenants want to stay? Is it a modern unit, fair rent, or something deeper, like feeling valued and supported as residents? In a city as fast-paced and diverse as San Francisco, retaining good tenants takes genuine effort. It’s not just about quick repairs or polite emails. It’s about creating a living experience where people feel comfortable, respected, and confident they’re in good hands. When you prioritize that experience, you don’t just reduce turnover - you build trust, stability, and long-term value for your property. Here are seven practical, people-first strategies every San Francisco property owner can use to keep tenants happy and coming back year after year.
When it comes to owning or managing property in San Francisco, maintenance is one of the most important ways to protect your investment and keep your tenants happy. With the city’s mix of coastal air, fog, and older architecture, staying proactive can make the difference between a quick fix and a costly emergency. Whether you own a single building or several rental units, here are some practical, easy-to-follow tips that will help you stay ahead of common issues and keep your property in excellent condition all year long.
PREVIEW Partnering with BanCal transformed Michael Ng and Victor Lau’s Pacific Heights property operations – streamlining management, improving tenant satisfaction, and restoring their peace of mind. With clear communication, proactive oversight, and strategic upgrades, their property is now managed efficiently and effectively, with enhanced results.
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