Monthly Archives: October 2015

How to Repair Stair Tread in a Multifamily Rental

One thing you want to keep up with is the repairs when you own multifamily rentals or any rental property. Because if your tenant would fall down the steps or becomes hurt due to your negligence, you could be sued. So if your tenant reports; or if you notice a loose stair tread, fixing it as soon as possible is advisable. Therefore; below are instructions on how to repair a stair tread on a wooden staircase.

11866658_sFirst block off the stairway so no one can use it. Then pry up any moldings or trim around where the damaged stair is. Also pull up any loose nails. If the bottom of the handrails are in the stair tread, put the notches on the side of the stair tread at each baluster so it’s easier to remove the balusters. With a hammer, strike the bottom of the balusters by striking outward so the balusters are pushed to the side. Now remove any additional nails sticking out.

Next you need to pry the damaged tread up by using a pry bar. You will need to tap the bar in between the stair trend as well as the stringer and then push down on the bar so the step raises. Keep repeating until the tread becomes loose and can be removed easily by hand.

You will then need to measure the worn tread’s length, thickness and width. Next, buy the same wood species as the old tread as well as the same thickness of board when you buy a length of stair tread stock. Now if the tread has a rounded edge, buy a new one already rounded. Then lay the old tread on the new plank and trace the outline or measure and mark the needed dimensions on the new tread. For cutting the new tread, using a circular saw is best.

Make sure the new tread is smooth by using a power sander or sandpaper. Now by drilling pilot holes 3/16-inch at the end of the new tread, when nails are driven into the wood, it won’t split. To close, place the new tread where the old tread used to be and nail it to the stringers. Replace the handrails, moldings and any trim and nail into place also.

When in doubt call a professional.

Fencing and Multifamily Rentals

9366267_sA maintained multifamily rental property which is fully fenced will better attract a well-paying tenant. This is because tenants looking for rental places with fences usually have children or pets and some affluence if they are looking for that kind of property which they know will cost more to rent. A fence makes the property look well cared for too and shows you value your property. It also gives the perception that the property is safe and secure which is good since parents look for rentals with fencing to keep the kids safe from harm. Additionally the parents can go out into the fenced in area with their children and supervise, play games or just sit and watch. Plus, if the fenced in area has grass, it will even be more inviting.

Also, if you advertise your multifamily rental property as dog friendly, the property should be totally fenced in or have a fenced in pet area. Pet owners also want their four footed friends to have a safe environment to run around in. So having a pet friendly area is just as important to a pet owner as a fenced in yard is to a parent.

Additionally, when you as a landlord fence in your property, it will define your property from your neighbor’s next door and give your tenants boundaries. It gives your property a unified feel as well as an all over well cared for appearance also. Now maintaining a fence does take some time, but the payoff is worth it if the tenant is a better one.

With these facts in mind, a fence makes it more difficult for less desirable tenants to move in because with a fence, you can charge a higher rent since it is a security factor. Then as an added bonus, your turnover will be less because your quality of tenant will be higher.

So if you own a multi-family rental property and have room to install a fence, it could be a good move to contact a professional fence installer and see what suggestions they have for your property.