How Property Managers handles Rain, Water, & Storms
Anthony A. Luna • March 6, 2023
Rain or Shine Coastline Equity ensures our portfolio is safe
Recently, Southern California experienced a major "atmospheric river" that affected much of the southland. During major rain and water events, property managers have a number of responsibilities to ensure the safety and well-being of their tenants and the properties they manage. Property management is the process of overseeing and managing real estate properties, including residential, commercial, and vacation rentals.
Property managers are responsible for a wide range of tasks, regardless of the weather, including marketing and advertising the property, screening and selecting tenants, negotiating leases, handling maintenance and repair requests, enforcing rules and regulations, and complying with local, state, and federal laws. In addition, as property managers. we work to maximize the return on investment for the property owner and maintain the value of the property. Property management is a critical service for landlords and property owners, especially during major weather events.
During a major rain event, our role as property managers includes:
- Monitoring weather forecasts and alerting tenants of any potential hazards.
- Inspecting the property for any potential flood risks and taking steps to mitigate those risks. This may include sandbagging, sealing any gaps or cracks in the foundation, or installing flood barriers.
- Ensuring that the property has working sump pumps and other necessary equipment to prevent flooding and water damage.
- Coordinating with contractors or repair technicians to fix any damage that may occur during the event, such as broken windows, flooded basements, or water-damaged floors and walls.
- Providing temporary housing or relocation assistance for tenants who are unable to remain in their units due to flood damage.
- Communicating with tenants about any necessary evacuation plans or emergency procedures.
- Keeping accurate records of any damages, repairs, and other related expenses for insurance purposes.
In summary, property managers play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants and the properties they manage during major rain and water events. They are responsible for monitoring weather forecasts, inspecting the property for potential risks, coordinating repairs, and assisting tenants in the event of an emergency.
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Finding the right tenant is one of the most important things you’ll do as a property owner. The right renter can mean steady income, fewer problems, and long-term stability — while the wrong one can lead to missed rent, damage, or legal headaches. So how do you actually find great tenants for your rental property? Here's a clear, step-by-step approach that works — whether you're a new landlord or a seasoned investor. 1. Write a Clear, Honest Rental Listing Start by crafting a listing that highlights what makes your property attractive, but also sets clear expectations. Good property descriptions should include: Rental price and lease length Number of bedrooms and bathrooms Location and amenities Any restrictions (pets, smoking, etc.) Post your listing on multiple rental listing sites — but don’t underestimate the power of rent signs in front of the property, especially if it's in a high-traffic area. 2. Market Where Your Ideal Tenants Are To reach more prospective tenants , take your marketing beyond listing sites. Post your property on social media , community groups, and even local forums. Word of mouth can also be powerful — let friends, colleagues, and neighbors know the unit is available. Make sure your contact information is easy to find and consistent across platforms. You want prospective renters to reach you quickly when interest is high. 3. Use a Standard Rental Application When potential tenants reach out, have a standard rental application ready to go. This not only helps you stay organized, but ensures you’re collecting all the info you’ll need for the next step — tenant screenings . A good application should request: Full name and contact details Employment and income information References and previous landlord contacts Authorization for a background check and credit score pull 4. Screen Tenants Thoroughly (and Legally) One of the most critical steps in finding good tenants is how you screen tenants . Don’t skip this part — it’s where most rental issues can be avoided. Effective tenant screenings usually include: Background check (criminal history, eviction records) Credit score and payment history Verification of employment and income Reference checks with their previous landlord Always follow housing laws when screening applicants. Be consistent, fair, and avoid any language or decisions that could be considered discriminatory under the Fair Housing Act. 5. Collect a Security Deposit and Finalize the Lease Once you’ve found a great tenant , collect a security deposit (within the limits set by your state), and have both parties sign a clear, legally binding lease agreement . Your lease should detail rent amounts, due dates, responsibilities, and procedures for repairs or disputes. If you're not sure how to draft one, consult with a landlord or property manager familiar with local rental laws. Final Thoughts Finding the right tenant takes more than just putting up a listing — it takes a clear strategy, legal awareness, and the ability to evaluate prospective tenants fairly and confidently. The effort you put in now saves time, money, and stress later. If you're unsure or simply want to ensure a smooth process, working with a professional property management company can make tenant placement and lease compliance much easier.
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