Managing a rental property in Vancouver takes work. You have legal duties under the BC Residential Tenancy Act. You must keep your units safe and livable. This landlord maintenance checklist helps you track every task. Use it to protect your investment. Use it to keep your tenants happy. Whether you own a condo in Yaletown or a house in East Vancouver, these steps apply to you.
Essential Safety Systems
Safety is your first priority. Start with the devices that save lives.
- Smoke Detectors: Inspect every unit. Test the alarm button. Replace the batteries every year. Check the expiry date on the back. Install detectors in every bedroom.
- Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Check these if the building uses gas. Test them monthly. Replace units every seven to ten years.
- Fire Extinguishers: Look at the pressure gauge. Ensure the pin is in place. Check the tag for the last service date.
- Fire Doors: Test the self-closing hinges. Ensure the door latches completely. Remove any doorstops or obstructions.
- Emergency Lighting: Press the test button. Ensure the lights stay on. Replace dead batteries in the backup system.
Plumbing and Water Protection
Water causes the most damage to Vancouver homes. Check these items to prevent leaks.
- Sinks and Faucets: Look under the kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Feel for damp wood. Tighten the mounting hardware. Replace worn washers.
- Toilets: Check the base for water. Ensure the toilet does not rock. Flush to check for proper drainage. Replace the flapper if the toilet runs.
- Showers and Tubs: Inspect the caulking. Look for cracks or gaps. Replace old caulk to prevent wall rot. Clear hair from the drains.
- Hot Water Tanks: Look for rust at the bottom. Check the pressure relief valve. Note the age of the tank. Most last ten years.
- Appliances: Check the dishwasher hose. Inspect the washing machine connections. Look for puddles behind the fridge.
Heating and Air Quality
Vancouver winters are wet. Proper heating keeps the unit dry.
- Furnace Filters: Change filters every three months. Use the correct size. Write the date on the new filter.
- Baseboard Heaters: Vacuum the fins. Remove dust and hair. Ensure furniture stays four inches away.
- Thermostats: Test the controls. Ensure the heat turns on quickly. Replace batteries in digital units.
- Exhaust Fans: Run the bathroom fan. Check the suction with a piece of paper. Clean the grill. These fans prevent mold.
- Windows: Check the seals. Look for condensation between glass panes. Ensure the locks function. Lubricate the tracks.
Interior Surfaces and Hardware
Keep the unit looking good. Repair wear and tear before it grows.
- Drywall: Look for holes from nails. Patch the dents. Sand the surface smooth. Match the paint color.
- Flooring: Check for loose tiles. Look for tripped edges on laminate. Stretch carpets if they bubble.
- Cabinetry: Tighten the hinges. Adjust the drawer slides. Replace broken knobs or pulls.
- Closet Doors: Ensure the rollers stay in the track. Tighten the floor guides.
- Light Fixtures: Replace burnt-out bulbs. Use LED bulbs for long life. Ensure the globes are secure.
Exterior and Building Envelope
The outside of the building protects the inside. This is vital for North Vancouver and West Vancouver properties.
- Gutters: Clean the leaves out twice a year. Check the downspouts for clogs. Ensure water flows away from the foundation.
- Roofing: Look for missing shingles. Check the flashing around chimneys. Remove moss growth.
- Siding: Inspect for cracks or holes. Look for rot near the ground. Power wash the north side to remove green algae.
- Decks and Balconies: Check the railing for sturdiness. Look for soft spots in the wood. Clean the drainage grates.
- Walkways: Repair cracks in the concrete. Remove weeds. Ensure the path is level to prevent trips.
Pest and Environmental Control
Act fast when you see signs of pests.
- Entry Points: Seal gaps around pipes. Check the door sweeps. Look for holes in window screens.
- Pest Inspection: Look for droppings. Check for chewed wires. Call a pro if you find bed bugs or rodents.
- Mold: Check the window sills. Look at the corners of the ceiling. Clean minor mold with soap and water. Find the source of the moisture.
Seasonal Planning for Landlords
Schedule your maintenance by the month. This spreads out the cost.
- Spring: Clean the exterior windows. Inspect the landscaping. Test the irrigation system in Richmond.
- Summer: Paint the exterior. Repair fences in Burnaby. Service any AC units.
- Fall: Clean the gutters. Service the furnace. Turn off outdoor water taps.
- Winter: Salt the sidewalks. Check the attic for leaks. Inspect the sump pump.
Landlord Maintenance in Local Areas
Different parts of the city have different needs.
- Yaletown and West End: These areas have many condos. Focus on plumbing and appliance repairs. Check the dryer vents.
- Kerrisdale and UBC: These areas have older homes. Focus on heating systems and roofing. Check the electrical panels.
- Main St and South Main St: These areas have many basement suites. Focus on moisture control and soundproofing. Check the sump pumps.
- East Vancouver: Many properties here have laneway houses. Maintain the shared walkways. Check the exterior lighting.
Why You Should Hire a Professional
Maintenance takes time. You might not have the tools. You might not have the skills. Hiring a handyman is a smart business move. It saves you from emergency calls at night. It protects the value of your property.
Randall The Handyman serves all of Vancouver. We work in South Vancouver, Westside, and Richmond. We understand the needs of property managers. We arrive on time. We do the job right.
Our Pricing and Service
We keep pricing simple for your budget.
- First Hour: $120.
- Each Additional Hour: $85.
This rate covers labor. We bring the tools. We handle the small repairs. We handle the big checklists. You get a receipt for your records. This is a tax-deductible business expense.
Get Your Property Ready
Do not wait for a tenant to complain. Do not wait for a leak to start. Walk through your property today. Use this checklist. Note what needs repair. Fix the small issues now.
Contact Randall The Handyman. We handle landlord maintenance across Vancouver. We work in North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Burnaby. We make rental property repairs easy. Call us. Schedule your maintenance visit. Keep your investment in top shape.
