Seven tools all rental property managers should have

A basic toolkit set should be in every rental property management supplies. This is not to state or imply that you ought to do significant upkeep tasks for your house by yourself. Additionally, don't hesitate to call in experts for assistance if anything has to be fixed and is outside the scope of your expertise. Smaller improvements, though, like tightening cabinet knobs or swapping out a few lightbulbs, are things you can manage. These are the tools you'll need to have on hand for these do-it-yourself repairs and fast fixes.

1. All-Size Screwdrivers

Generally speaking, it's recommended to always keep a couple of screwdrivers on hand or in your vehicle. When you have a decent flathead or Philip's head, tightening handles and fasteners is easy. However, you may also rapidly attach wall plates, smoke detectors, and other decorative elements. 

2. Measurement tape

A tape measure is another item that every owner of a rental property has to have. Almost everything will require measurement, including floors and entrances. They're also useful if you want to decorate a room. Additionally, for speedier and simpler loading and unloading, you may inform moving providers about the measurements of your doorways.

3. Hammer

Invest in a high-quality hammer. Your most adaptable option will be a simple curved claw version. Additionally, they work well for finishing and flooring nails, among other simple solutions. They can be very helpful for removing nails as well, especially from decks and patios. With a nail and hammer, you can also attach some window boxes or plants.

4. Pliers

Gripping instruments are also necessary for routine property upkeep. Rental property owners tend to choose locking, needle-nose, and channel-lock pliers. You'll also be happy you have the additional pliers when you need to loosen a tight outside faucet, switch off a main, or reach into a small place to turn anything.

5. Electrical Tape

Probably the most useful tool in your toolkit is duct tape. Duct tape may be used as a temporary solution for various issues, including leaky faucets, shower doors, shattered windows, and glass, to stop additional harm or damage until professionals can replace and repair the item. 

6. A flashlight

Carry a couple flashlights with you at all times, as well as extra batteries and chargers for your vehicle. Your rental property has gloomy crevasses to check and dark corners to investigate. They come in handy in cases of emergencies, such as blackouts. However, they're also perfect for looking beneath the bed, under a tenant's things, or wherever else they've instructed you to search. Given how dark attics and basements can get, having a flashlight is essential.

7. Dipper

When a blockage occurs, you might not want to plunge toilets since your renters could call. Nonetheless, it's still a good idea to have a fresh plunger just in case. Perhaps when doing a brief check-up on your home before letting new renters move in, you come across an issue that the plunger can fix. Plungers are useful for more utilities than just toilets. To clear obstructions and debris, plunge floor drains and sinks. In the best-case situation, you may "gift" your new tenants the brand-new plunger and ask them to help themselves if they have any early flushing issues if there isn't a toilet clog.

Keep these essentials close at hand. Typically, you will utilize them to assist with rapid fixes, move-in and move-out inspections, or to identify areas that might require improvement. Recall to get qualified professionals to do the repairs if they appear outside your expertise.

Suggestions for household cleaning

Regular cleaning helps prevent pests, lowers allergens in the house like dust and dander, and inhibits the growth of germs, including bacteria and viruses that cause disease. Cleaning purges surfaces and items of dust, grime, and bacteria. After cleaning high-risk areas, such as bathroom surfaces and food preparation surfaces—especially if someone is sick in the house—use a disinfectant that kills germs. Observe the cleaning guidelines in places where food is prepared, particularly after handling raw meat, poultry, fish, or eggs.

Cleaning and disinfection products may include chemicals that are dangerous to drink, contact, or breathe in. For safe usage, always read and abide by the directions on product labels. The chance of experiencing negative health consequences from product usage, such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and nasal irritation, is decreased when gloves are used and the area is well-ventilated.

How to sanitize and cleanse?

Cleaning: Before applying disinfectants, thoroughly clean all surfaces with soap, water, or detergent. Disinfectants may be less effective on surfaces that have dust or other things on them.

Disinfection: Use a disinfectant only after cleaning surfaces to eradicate bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Verify if the product is an EPA-approved product by looking for the registration number on the label. Pay close attention to the label's instructions.

Keep an eye on the contact time—the duration of time the disinfectant has to stay on the surface to work. This applies to disinfection wipes as well and may differ according to the product.

If a disinfectant is not available, you can use a newly made home bleach solution according to the directions on the label.