Based in San Francisco the Livable team is no stranger to the dangers of hot weather, including the increased chance of wildfires - it takes a spark to create miles and miles of devastation. Fires strike throughout California each year, especially in the fall months, and can cause catastrophic property loss like in the Woolsey fire in Los Angeles or even worse cost lives like the Camp fire in Northern California in 2018.
So how you can protect your tenants and your properties in the future?
Since 1922 the National Fire Protection Association has sponsored Fire Prevention Week annually providing tools and educational resources to reduce fire damage. Keep informed on where to find the team or how to get involved online.
The organization has free information sheets specifically targeted at apartment building tenants, as well as worksheets owners can distribute to tenants to help them come up with an escape plan before a fire strikes. Kids' activity sheets featuring the Fire Prevention Week mascot, Sparky the Dog are provided to start fire safety education sooner than later. The organization also provides handouts about general fire safety topics like cooking and heating safely and pamphlets focused on the importance of smoke alarms.
Keep safe during fire season!
At Livable, we've created a system that fairly and legally increases conservation and sustainable practices in buildings without the expense of installing a physical submetering system. Book a call to speak with one of our professionals who will listen to the details of your situation and map out customized, cost-saving solutions for your utility management.
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Between the loss of income, maintenance and repairs, apartment turnover can be expensive. But the Home Depot has some tips to keep tenants happy in their units with minimal expense, thus lowering the turnover rate. The first is to retain tenants through “renewal incentives” that keep the apartment appealing, like applying fresh paint and patching holes. These low-cost moves can help keep tenants happy and assure apartments are ready to rent if they do move out. A bigger step could include upgrading appliances to newer and more energy-efficient models likely to keep tenants looking for these amenities elsewhere. Finally, if the unit does turn over, take the opportunity to make common repairs like worn carpets, damaged screens or broken blinds. The money put into maintenance during the tenancy and turnover period will payout in fewer and quicker turnover periods.
