One of the most common areas of liability is the condition of the property itself. Loose handrails, broken steps, poor lighting, or slippery walkways may not seem like much in the moment, but they can quickly turn into accidents and lawsuits. Staying ahead with regular inspections and quick fixes not only protects your tenants, it protects you.

Another area that landlords sometimes forget about is smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If a fire or gas leak occurs and those devices aren’t working, responsibility can land squarely on the owner. Testing detectors each lease cycle, swapping batteries annually, and keeping records of it all provides peace of mind and proof that you’ve done your part.

Water issues are another hidden liability. A small leak or poor ventilation can turn into mold, and mold can turn into tenant health complaints. Handling leaks immediately and making sure bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas have proper airflow keeps these problems from ever taking root.

Then there’s security. Broken locks, missing window latches, or unsecured entryways don’t just make tenants feel unsafe—they can put you at risk. Tenants trust that their home is secure, and when it isn’t, liability questions follow. Regularly checking locks, responding quickly to safety concerns, and making upgrades when needed keeps everyone protected.

Finally, there’s the matter of who you hire. Using vendors who aren’t licensed or insured may feel cheaper in the moment, but if something goes wrong whether it’s poor workmanship or an injury on the property, the costs can come back to you. Partnering only with vetted, insured professionals is the safer choice every time.

At Professional Property Managers, we don’t just help you manage rent, we help you manage risk. From thorough documentation to trusted vendors to consistent inspections, we make sure your property is not only profitable but protected. Because safeguarding your investment also means safeguarding yourself.

Warmly,
Miranda Witmer
Property Manager | Professional Property Managers
Yuma, AZ