Preventive maintenance checklist for property management

If you’ve ever dealt with a leaking roof right after a tenant moves in or had a smoke alarm go flat at 2am, you already know the pain of reactive maintenance. It’s costly, chaotic, and usually shows up when you least expect it.

That’s where preventive maintenance comes in. It’s not glamorous, but it saves you money, keeps your property compliant, and helps you avoid those late-night “urgent” calls.

This guide gives you a WA-focused preventive maintenance checklist, including year-round essentials, seasonal tips, and a breakdown of how often to check what — so your property keeps running smoothly (and your tenants stay happy).

What is a property management preventive maintenance checklist?

A preventive maintenance checklist is your go-to plan for keeping a rental property in top working order. Instead of waiting for things to break, it helps you stay ahead of issues with regular inspections, scheduled servicing, and proactive repairs.

For property managers and landlords, it means less downtime, fewer complaints, and a lot less money poured into emergency callouts or major fixes.

In the context of Western Australia, it also means meeting your legal responsibilities as a landlord. You have to make sure critical property systems and features, such as smoke alarms, plumbing, and electrical infrastructure, are checked and maintained within required timeframes. A proper checklist helps you do that without missing a beat.

Year-round preventative maintenance essentials

Smoke alarms

• Frequency: Test once a year
• Compliance: All rental properties in WA must have smoke alarms that are either hardwired or have a non-removable 10-year lithium battery. They must be in working order before a tenancy starts, and again at each lease renewal or extension.

Carbon monoxide alarms (if installed)

• Frequency: Test once a year
• Compliance: Not mandatory in WA, but strongly recommended if the property has gas heaters or appliances.

HVAC systems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)

• Frequency: Visual check once a year
• Compliance: No specific HVAC servicing law in WA, but heating and cooling must be safe and functional to meet minimum rental standards.

Plumbing and hot water

• Frequency: Visual check every 3-months (during rental inspections)
• Compliance: Leaks or faulty hot water breaches minimum standards. You need to make sure there’s hot and cold running water, and that water pressure is reasonable.

Electrical systems and RCDs

• Frequency: RCDs must be tested by a licensed electrician once every 12 months
• Compliance: WA law requires at least two RCDs installed on all power and lighting circuits in rental properties.

Doors and windows

• Frequency: Visual check every 3-months (during rental inspections)
• Compliance: External doors and windows must have working locks. Some doors have compliance stickers inside the frame that are checked off when inspected.

Roof and gutters (if applicable)

• Frequency: Inspect and clean once or twice a year
• Compliance: No direct regulation, but you’re responsible for fixing leaks and water ingress.
• Note: Not relevant if the property is an apartment or in a strata-managed building.

Appliances (if supplied with the property)

• Frequency: Checked during standard property inspections
• Compliance: If the landlord supplies it, it must be safe and working.

Pest control

• Frequency: Inspect once a year or as needed
• Compliance: You’re responsible for treating infestations unless the tenant caused it.

Seasonal preventative maintenance checklist

Summer

• Service or clean ceiling fans and AC units
• Check for signs of pest activity (ants, termites, cockroaches)
• Test and adjust irrigation or retic systems
• Clear dry vegetation from the property to reduce bushfire risk
• Touch up paint or treat decking before high heat hits
• Make sure windows open properly for airflow
• Remind tenants about safe use of fans and appliances during hotter months

Autumn

• Check that heaters are working properly
• Look for draughts or gaps around windows and doors
• Clean gutters again (falling leaves build up fast)
• Test all outdoor lighting (days are getting shorter)
• Review emergency contact info in case of severe weather

Winter

• Check for signs of condensation or rising damp
• Inspect pipework and look for leaks
• Test smoke alarms and heaters
• Review locks, windows and security systems
• Trim back overhanging branches to prevent storm damage
• Make sure external drainage is clear to avoid pooling water

Spring

• Check the roof (if applicable) for storm damage or loose tiles
• Clear gutters and downpipes
• Look for signs of water damage or mould, especially around ceilings and walls
• Service or clean air conditioning units
• Trim trees and tidy up gardens if the tenant isn’t responsible
• Test smoke alarms (if not done already)
• Inspect irrigation systems if installed

How to stay on top without losing your mind

If you’re managing your own property, there’s no sugar-coating it. Staying compliant means keeping track of a lot of moving parts. Here’s what you’ll need to have on lock:

• Set annual reminders for smoke alarms, RCD checks, and other compliance-based maintenance tasks
• Use a consistent property maintenance checklist during your inspections so nothing slips through the cracks
• Record everything, such as what was checked, when, and any issues found (photos help too)
• Line up reliable trades in advance for plumbing, electrical, pest control, and any emergency fixes
• Stay across WA compliance updates (because the laws do change)

It’s a lot to juggle, especially if property management isn’t your day job.

That’s where we come in. At Semple, we handle the scheduling, work with trusted local tradies, and complete thorough three-month inspections that actually lead to action. We keep your property in top shape and fully compliant, without the stress.

The smarter way to manage your property

Preventive maintenance might not be the most exciting part of being a landlord, but it’s one of the most important. Staying ahead of issues means fewer surprises, fewer complaints and a much smoother experience for everyone involved.

If you’re doing it yourself, the checklists in this guide will help you keep your property in great shape, stay compliant with WA laws, and protect your long-term investment.

But if you’re ready to hand over the to-do list, we’re here for it. Semple offers hands-on, reliable property management in Perth. We take care of inspections, maintenance, and compliance — so you can stop stressing about the small stuff and start enjoying the return on your property.