Long-lasting carpet in your rentals, and in fact flooring in rental properties in general, is always a challenge. Especially getting your rental carpet flooring to last longer.
The maintenance checkup this week provided by Keepe focuses on ways to make your carpet last longer and be sure you are protecting your investment and income as well as keeping your tenants happy.
Rental carpet flooring can be one of the most high-maintenance parts of a property. Signs of wear and tear as well as stains and dirt are most visible on carpet.
Poor carpet care is easy to spot and tough on the eyes, which can make an otherwise appealing space loose its value. Improving poor carpet conditions generally means needing a complete replacement, which can be a lengthy and costly project.
5 tips to long-lasting carpet in your rentals
The tips below outline more affordable and effective ways to protect carpet floorings and preserve their longevity.
No. 1 – Consider stricter pet policies
Carpet is not a pet-friendly surface.
It absorbs odor, and can easily hold onto hair and stains.
Indoor ‘accidents’ can take an unpleasant turn, and their odor can linger long after cleanup is attempted. The best way to ensure carpet flooring can be adequately repaired and cared for on the long run is to set a higher security deposit for pet-friendly properties, which can then be utilized to repair carpet damage as needed.
Always make sure to thoroughly communicate with your tenant what kind of responsible pet care is expected for animals to continue living in the property.
No. 2 – Schedule a deep-cleaning service once a year if you want long-lasting carpet in your rentals
Most carpet manufacturers recommend having a yearly professional deep-cleaning as a way to prolong the life of carpets.
It is best to steer clear of providers who utilize harsh chemicals, which can be harsh on carpet fibers and might lead to discoloration.
No. 3 – Include hard-surface areas
Constructing a hard-surface area to act as a “barrier” against the dirt and debris brought in from outside can be extremely helpful when it comes to protecting carpet from direct exposure.
A small tile or vinyl landing can be easily added in front of main entryways, and tenants should be encouraged to utilize floor mats to wipe their shoes on.
No. 4 – Provide tenants with approved detergents for spot-cleaning rental carpet flooring
It is fundamental to inform tenants about the risks of letting stains dry on carpet fibers, which usually results in permanent staining and visible marks.
Utilizing an effective and carpet-friendly detergent and blot cleaning right away is the most effective approach to avoid permanent stains.
Consult a trusted professional carpet cleaner about ideal detergents and make the recommended product available to tenants.
No. 5 – Invest in area-appropriate flooring
Carpet performs best and lasts longest in low-traffic areas, away from outside debris, food, moisture and pet exposure.
It is ideal to remove carpet from kitchens and dining areas, opting for vinyl, tile and laminate options instead.
This will avoid the high risk of food stains and spills while improving the look of the property.
Other rental property maintenance help from Keepe.
4 Outdoor Flooring Options For Your Rentals
20 Easy, Affordable Maintenance Projects To Update Your Rentals
7 Types Of Kitchen Countertops For Your Apartments
13 Ways To Pet Proof Your Rental Property
About Keepe:
Keepe is an on-demand maintenance solution for property managers and independent landlords. The company makes hundreds of independent contractors and handymen available for maintenance projects at rental properties. Keepe is available in the Greater Seattle area, Portland, Phoenix, San Francisco Bay and San Diego areas.
