As summer arrives in Michigan, rental properties face unique challenges. Hot temperatures, increased tenant activity, and seasonal wear-and-tear can quickly lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. For landlords, summer isn’t just a busy leasing season’s also the time to tackle preventative maintenance that protects your investment and keeps tenants satisfied.
Whether you manage single family homes in Detroit, lakeside cottages in northern Michigan, or suburban rentals across the state, having a summer maintenance plan is essential. In this article, we’ll explore the most important areas of focus for landlords, the risks of neglecting seasonal upkeep, and how a proactive strategy helps maintain property value year after year.
Every season brings its own maintenance priorities, but summer in Michigan is unique. While winter weather wreaks havoc on roofs and heating systems, summer’s heat, humidity, and increased tenant use can be just as damaging.
For example, air conditioning units often run non-stop during July and August, lawns and landscaping require constant attention, and higher turnover means rental units may need more frequent inspections and repairs. Landlords who plan ahead not only prevent emergencies but also create a safer, more comfortable environment for tenants.
Proactive summer maintenance also strengthens tenant relationships. A property that’s well-kept signals professionalism, improves tenant satisfaction, and reduces turnover rates—ultimately saving landlords time and money.
Summer is the perfect time to address the exterior of your rental properties. Warm weather makes outdoor repairs easier, and curb appeal has a direct impact on both tenant satisfaction and rental value.
Michigan winters are notoriously harsh, often leaving roofs with damaged shingles or gutters clogged with debris. Summer provides the chance to make necessary repairs before heavy storms arrive. Cleaning gutters, checking for leaks, and replacing missing shingles protects against water intrusion and prevents costly structural damage.
Tenants notice the condition of outdoor spaces immediately. Regular mowing, trimming trees, and removing dead branches not only improve aesthetics but also enhance safety. Overgrown trees can damage power lines or roofs during summer storms. Landlords who invest in landscaping often see better tenant retention and stronger curb appeal for prospective renters.
Michigan’s freeze thaw cycles often cause cracks in concrete and asphalt. Summer is the best time for sealing driveways, repairing walkways, and staining decks. These small improvements reduce liability risks and protect against further deterioration.
Few things frustrate tenants more than an air conditioning unit that fails during a heatwave. In Michigan, where summers can bring both high heat and humidity, a functioning HVAC system is critical.
Landlords should schedule seasonal inspections with licensed technicians before the peak summer months. Technicians will:
This preventive approach extends the life of HVAC systems and reduces the likelihood of expensive emergency repairs. Plus, energy efficient systems lower utility costs perk that tenants appreciate.
Summer can be tough on plumbing systems, especially with increased tenant usage. Landlords should check for leaks, dripping faucets, and signs of water damage in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems also need inspection, particularly after freezing winters.
Water heaters deserve attention, too. Flushing the tank annually helps prevent sediment buildup, ensuring the unit runs efficiently during high-demand months. These small checks prevent costly water damage and keep tenants satisfied with reliable systems.
Michigan summers bring more than sunshine they also bring pests. Ants, wasps, mosquitoes, and rodents can quickly become a nuisance for tenants. Landlords should schedule seasonal pest control services, seal entry points around foundations, and remind tenants about proper trash disposal.
Proactive pest management not only protects tenants but also prevents damage to rental units. For example, carpenter ants and rodents can cause significant structural problems if left unchecked.
Summer is also a key time to conduct inspections inside rental units. Tenants often open windows, use air conditioning heavily, and host more guests during the warmer months, all of which increase wear and tear.
Check seals around windows and doors for drafts or gaps. Proper sealing improves energy efficiency and reduces utility costs. Screens should also be inspected for tears, especially in areas where mosquitoes are common.
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested regularly. Summer inspections are a convenient time to replace batteries and ensure all units are functioning correctly. Michigan law requires landlords to provide these safety features, making compliance critical.
High summer traffic can accelerate wear on carpets, hardwood floors, and appliances. Inspecting and repairing small issues now prevents bigger problems later. For turnover units, deep cleaning ensures the property is move-in ready for the next tenant.
While maintenance protects the property itself, communication ensures tenants remain cooperative and satisfied. Summer is an ideal time to check in with tenants, remind them of their responsibilities, and address small concerns before they become major issues.
For example, landlords can send seasonal newsletters that:
Tenants who feel their landlord is proactive and responsive are more likely to renew leases and take better care of the property.
Some landlords delay seasonal maintenance to save money, but this approach often backfires. Neglected HVAC units break down under pressure, roofs develop leaks that cause interior damage, and pest infestations spiral out of control. The result? Higher repair costs, frustrated tenants, and increased turnover.
Preventative summer maintenance costs a fraction of emergency repairs and adds measurable value to your property. For example, regularly servicing HVAC units can extend their lifespan by years, while sealing driveways protects against costly full replacements.
A structured approach helps landlords stay on top of seasonal demands. By creating a summer rental maintenance checklist, you can prioritize tasks, schedule inspections, and track completed work. This not only ensures consistency across properties but also demonstrates professionalism to tenants.
Many successful landlords build their checklists into property management software or partner with professional property management companies who oversee seasonal upkeep on their behalf.
Michigan summers bring sunshine, tenant activity, and unique maintenance challenges. From HVAC systems to landscaping, pest control, and tenant engagement, landlords must take a proactive approach to protect their investments. The payoff is clear: reduced repair costs, happier tenants, and stronger long-term property performance.
If you’re ready to simplify seasonal upkeep, the best next step is to adopt a structured approach to summer maintenance. By planning, you’ll avoid costly surprises and ensure your rental property continues to thrive.
Take the stress out of seasonal upkeep.
Download the Seasonal Maintenance Checklist and make sure your Michigan rental is summer-ready.