How to Ensure the Long-Term Integrity of Your HMO Property

Ensuring the long-term integrity of a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) property amid a revolving door of tenants requires a proactive approach.

We explore some top tips for property owners and managers navigating the high-pace and sometimes complex landscape of shared living spaces, especially in areas of high rental costs and low supply.

Strong Inspection and Reporting Processes

Regular property inspections and condition reports are critical. Comprehensive walkthroughs and record-keeping allow landlords to identify potential issues before they grow into significant problems.

Making sure that effective condition reports are carried out at key stages during a tenant’s occupation, including move-in and end-of-tenancy, functions as a preventative measure that can safeguard the property's health in relation to issues such as water damage, damp, pests or invasive weeds.

Communication with Tenants

It can pay off to teach tenants how to take care of the property. Make sure tenancy agreements are clear about what tenants need to do, from keeping things clean to reporting problems. This can all be supported with clear and comprehensive tenancy agreements that explain the responsibilities of tenants.

Also, establishing open lines with tenants encourages them to report issues promptly, preventing the escalation of minor concerns.

Prioritise Maintenance Requests

Several issues may arise during a tenant’s tenancy. Even if you’ve just carried out a comprehensive condition report, it’s always worth acting on the requests for additional maintenance from your tenants swiftly.

Cracked windowpanes, broken handles, leaks, minor electrical problems, faulty appliances and more may not always seem like urgent issues, but have the potential to grow into something more significant.

A quick response to maintenance requests not only cultivates tenant satisfaction but also shows a dedication to property care, making it more likely for renters to let you know of any issues they find.

Invest in Durability

The temptation to buy cheaper appliances, furniture and materials for an HMO is natural. With so many renters potentially moving in and out, it makes sense not to invest so much in things that could get damaged or stolen. However, investing wisely in quality could have several benefits that make maintaining a property’s condition easier.

This includes making it more likely for good tenants to stay for longer durations and reducing churn, as well as reducing the frequency of replacements and repairs. Equally, attention to the property's exterior, including wall cladding, roofing and landscaping, could protect the property against wear and tear.

Efficient Documentation

From property condition reports to inventory lists, keeping accurate records of inspections, maintenance activities, and repairs will aid you as you manage an HMO long-term. It will help to attribute accountability to the right parties when it comes to deposit issues, as well as inform future-decision making, such as booking in any property upgrades or maintenance jobs.

If you’re looking for a tool to help you keep your property in good condition going forward, try using our free property management app, complete with tools and features that support HMOs and student blocks to streamline a whole range of processes and activities for property owners and managers.

Dan, 15 December 2023

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