Rental property fencing repairs and maintenance are an important part of the upkeep of your Miramar rental property. So, following these top rental property fencing tips can go a long way in keeping your fence looking as good as new.
Timely inspections and maintenance checks are foremost when it comes to taking the first steps. Down the road, they also prevent the dilemma of repairing or replacing, when fences sustain damage from the humid Florida climate and high winds. Landlords in Florida are no strangers to the hurricane season, and chances are they have experienced broken and damaged fences, resulting from wind damage associated with hurricanes.
Landlords can take a few proactive measures, starting with knowing that they have the right fence for the Florida climate. And understanding how to minimize the wear and tear sustained over time. Here are a few tips to help you manage the fencing on your Miramar rental property.
Protecting Your Rental Property Fencing With Timely Inspections
As a Miramar rental property owner, you must regularly check the condition of your property fences for obvious signs of damage. A timely inspection helps by spotting visible signs of wear and tear early on, allowing for timely and cost-effective repairs. These can be conducted by themselves, though more often than not, fencing inspections are a part of the annual property inspection.
Inspections usually reveal large trees and bushes around the fence line, which often fall onto fences or rain down debris in high winds. More often than not, extensive damage to fences is the result of such accidents. So, it is important to trim large trees and bushes around the fence line, to minimize the risk of suck kind of damage Especially before the onset of the hurricane season, when it is imperative to ensure the yard is free of debris and large objects that can turn into dangerous projectiles, in high winds. By maintaining the trees around your property, you can easily prevent costly fence repairs. Or even expensive replacements.
Surprisingly, yard furniture, garden ornaments, and even toys left in the yard are responsible for unexpected damage to large sections of fencing. And so, it is important to keep your landscape as object-free as possible, to avoid damage from such seemingly innocent objects, capable of serious wind-blown damage. Innocent-looking trash cans, patio chairs, pool umbrellas, and garden tools are often the culprits of fencing damage in high winds. And so, keeping a clean and object-free landscape is important, on your Miramar rental property.
Protecting Your Fencing – To Repair Or To Replace?
One of the most commonly asked questions among Miramar rental property owners’ is should you repair or replace a damaged fence? The answer to that is mostly dictated by the extent of damage, type of damage, and the overall cost of replacing or repairing it. Believe it or not, on most occasions, it is cheaper to replace a damaged fence, than run the risk of repairing it! However, you should first determine the correct type of replacement fence type for your property. Understanding the impact of Florida’s hot and humid climate is crucial when considering extensive replacement. Or even expensive repairs to fences. Types of wood, paints, and protective coatings all play a large role in determining the cost of repairing or replacing fences. make sure to engage a professional and qualified contractor, well-versed in fencing solutions in South Florida.
Fencing Damage – The Telltale signs
Weather-elated molding or rotting in fences generally shows up as holes in the wood, discoloration, and tinting. Such signs are also indicative of deeper microorganism activity that can destroy entire lengths of fences if ignored. That is why it is important to address rotting issues as soon as possible, to avoid further damage and expensive repairs. Property managers will most likely pick up on these issues and are trained to handle them most effectively.
After rotting damages, structural weaknesses, as the next most obvious type of damage. Leaning over fences, splintering and missing boards are the telltale signs to look for. Again, since such damage can lead to larger more extensive fencing damage, it is important to address structural weaknesses as soon as possible. In most instances, the weaker parts of the fence can be repaired and some sections replaced. You can often replace weak or loose posts, and prop up leaning fences relatively easily. But if that does not work, your property manager may need to replace the fence altogether.
Rental Property Fencing – Wood, Iron Or Vinyl?
When considering replacing or repairing damaged fences at your Miramar rental property, it is imperative to procure the correct type of replacement, capable of standing up to the local South Florida climate. Not forgetting the damage inflicted by the harsh hurricane season. Given the excessive humidity and high wind speeds, aluminum, iron, and vinyl are the preferred high wind-withstanding choices. Durable steel and iron fences are also popular choices, given their high tensile strength, and decorative designs. These feature multiple layers of anti-corrosion finishes and sealants that repel moisture and sun damage.
Many Miramar homes also feature wooden fences that accentuate the classic style and design of elegant South Florida homes. However, whilst they add to the overall look of properties, they require frequent maintenance and upkeep, to prevent decays. To maintain the durability and appeal of wooden fencing and also to preserve the wood, make sure to re-paint or re-stain your fence every 3-5 years. This will help to maintain its strength and beauty and prevent expensive replacements.
How We Can Help?
Being able to understand and acknowledge the life expectancy of fences on your rental property can help you prepare for repairs or replacements, on time. As experienced property managers, we can help you with regular inspections and maintenance of fences, to avoid untimely replacements. Thus, protecting your investment and ensuring a regular cash flow.
For more information on replacement planning and how the property management services offered by Real Property Management Premier can help keep your property values high and tenants satisfied, contact us online or by calling us directly at 954-362-5235.
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