As we bid farewell to the chilly days of winter, it’s time to embrace the warmth and freshness that spring brings! The sun is shining, birds are chirping – it’s a perfect time for both tenants and landlords to rejuvenate their living spaces. With spring in full swing, now is the ideal opportunity to delve into the annual tradition of spring cleaning. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of spring cleaning for landlords, offering practical tips and insights to ensure your rental properties are clean and ready for the season ahead.

The Standard Conditions attached to every rental agreement state the following regarding landlord and tenant obligations to repair and maintain the unit as described in section 49 of the Residential Tenancies Act:

8 (1) A landlord must maintain rental property in a good state of repair and fir for the use and enjoyment of the tenant. A landlord must keep all services and facilities included with the rent (e.g., appliances, heating, and plumbing systems, etc.) in a good and functional state of repair.

(2) A tenant must maintain reasonable health, cleanliness and sanitary standards throughout the rental unit and must repair damage to the rental unit, services or facilities caused by the tenant, or someone permitted on the property by the tenant. The tenant is not responsible for reasonable wear and tear.

(3) If the landlord grants the tenant the exclusive use of residential property (such as a single-family dwelling), the tenant is responsible for the ordinary cleanliness of the exterior of the property, including the yard or surrounding land, unless the parties agree otherwise.

As a rental housing provider, there are annual things you can do as part of regular maintenance.

1. Have your HVAC inspected. Ensure that filters are replaced in your units heating system. If replacements or fixes are needed, now is the perfect time as the need for internal heat becomes less.
2. Tend to the roof. In a previous blog post we discussed the dangers of falling ice and snow from a damaged roof. Now that the weather is starting to turn, inspecting and fixing roof damage is manageable.
3. Clean the gutters. Along with fixing the roof, cleaning the gutters are also important. Winter and spring storms can bring in debris and potentially clog the drain spout.
4. Address moisture buildup. Mold can lead to major renovation costs down the road if not addressed properly. Over the cold winter months, and the spring melt, moisture can build up on the property and there is potential for mold growth.
5. Boost that curb appeal! Now is the perfect time to start thinking about lawn care, painting, windows, landscaping, fencing, and all things curb appeal! It is the perfect way to boost the value of an investment property and the morale of your tenants.

Now is also a great time to send a letter to your tenants, reminding them of their responsibilities in the lease agreement, and encourage them to ensure they are maintaining a clean unit. “Clean” may be defined differently by each individual, so it is important to be specific when requesting cleaning from your tenants. As you are well aware, cleanliness issues and hoarding may lead to infestations of bugs, roaches, rodents and more. Food messes, trash, biohazardous waste and mold leads to problems for other tenants, neighbours, your building, and future renters. Tenants must do the basics, and you can make sure they are upholding their end of the agreement. Tenants can do the following:

1. Remove boxes, books, or furniture that are blocking vents.
2. Tidy belongings and prevent hoarding that may cause unwanted infestations.
3. Clean the bathrooms and kitchen to prevent mold and mildew.
4. Keeping the ovens and stovetops clean and free from grease to prevent fires.
5. Dispose of pet waste, vacuum pet hair if applicable to prevent odours.
6. Throw out all garbage and take out all recycling including cardboard, bottles, etc.

Remember – if you are planning to do a routine inspection, or if you need to enter the property, you need to give 24 hours notice to the tenant.

SKLA is proud to work with various service partners and businesses that offer many of these services. Check out our service member page on our website, or contact our office if you have any questions.

Happy spring cleaning!