While most of our customers are homeowners looking to make their own lives a little easier, more and more investment property owners are realizing our service can save them time and money.

Protect Your HVAC Asset

As an investor, it's important to recognize the asset value of your property's HVAC units. Replacing an air conditioner or furnace unit typically costs at least $5,000 in parts and labor but, if properly maintained, can last for over 15 years. That said, units that are not properly maintained (CHANGE YOUR FILTERS REGULARLY) are much more likely to break, resulting in major maintenance expenditures and major landlord headaches.

But It's the Tenant's Job - I Put It In The Lease!

Residential leases often require tenants to perform some routine maintenance, and often explicitly mention replacing filters. It's a reasonable request from property owner to tenant. However - if you're not checking up on it, how confident are you that it's happening?

Let's be serious - most tenants aren't t concerned about maintaining their landlord's air conditioners. Even the best intentioned tenants have busy lives and going to the hardware store to buy replacement filters is something that can easily be put off. Even if you inspect the filters on a regular basis, it's an impossible clause to enforce and is it even worth raising this issue with an otherwise great tenant?

Make Your Tenants Happy

So although sweet Mrs. Henderson isn't heading to the hardware store quite often enough - maybe her Christmas cookies have earned her a pass on this one. Your tenants value clean air and energy savings as much as you do. Sign them up for On Time Air Filters and explain that they'll be receive a box of new AC filters every few months. The first time they come, show them how easy they are to replace and tell them that they'll save money on their electricity bill and breathe in cleaner air. They'll appreciate your effort, expense and gesture and often, good landlords make good tenants. If you're protecting your investment at the same time, all the better!

P.S. - If your tenant's a smoker or has pets, you may want to spring for the "Best for Pets" filter to help eliminate odors. With any luck, you may be able to avoid replacing the carpet for the next tenant.

If you're a landlord or investment property owner with multiple properties, feel free to contact us for volume discounts.

Filed under: Matt Robins • Landlord Tips • air filter subscription • Air Filters • Income & Investment Properties