Property Maintenance Cost Calculator

The most common maintenance costs for rental properties include:

• Plumbing & Electrical Repairs – Fixing leaks, wiring issues, or appliance breakdowns.
• Heating & Cooling Systems – Regular servicing and repairs of air conditioning and heating units.
• Roof & Gutter Maintenance – Preventing water damage and leaks with regular cleaning and repairs.
• Painting & General Wear & Tear – Keeping walls, flooring, and fixtures in good condition.
• Pest Control – Managing infestations before they become a serious issue.
• Garden & Lawn Care – Maintaining outdoor spaces, including tree trimming and lawn mowing.

By budgeting ahead with our Property Maintenance Cost Calculator, you can ensure you’re financially prepared for these expenses.

Unexpected repairs are inevitable, but you can reduce their financial impact by:

• Setting aside funds using budgeting methods like the 1% rule, 1.5% rule, or square metre rule.
• Scheduling regular property inspections to catch small issues before they become major problems.
• Keeping a maintenance reserve fund to cover emergency repairs without impacting your cash flow.
• Working with reliable tradespeople who provide fast and cost-effective repairs.

Yes! Carefully selecting responsible tenants can significantly reduce maintenance costs over time. Poorly screened tenants may cause excessive wear and tear or neglect the property, leading to higher repair expenses. To minimise risks:

• Conduct comprehensive background checks (rental history, references, and income verification).
• Set clear expectations for property upkeep in the lease agreement.
• Perform routine inspections to ensure the property is well-maintained.

Good tenants help keep your maintenance costs low and protect your property’s value.

Absolutely! Comparing quotes from different suppliers and tradespeople can help you save money on repairs and maintenance. Here’s how:

• Get at least two to three quotes before approving major repairs.
• Build long-term relationships with trusted service providers for better pricing.
• Consider property maintenance management software to track expenses and streamline supplier communication.

This simple strategy can cut costs without compromising quality.

Using property maintenance management software can help you:

• Track expenses and stay within your budget.
• Schedule regular maintenance to prevent costly emergency repairs.
• Get alerts for upcoming maintenance tasks.
• Store supplier details & quotes for quick decision-making.
• Improve communication between landlords, tenants, and tradespeople.

By digitising maintenance management, you can save time, reduce costs, and keep your property in top condition.

The best method depends on your property type and budget:

• 1% Rule – Best for landlords who want a simple, general estimate based on property value.
• 1.5% Rule – Ideal for properties with higher rental income or older homes needing more upkeep.
• Square Metre Rule – Useful for budgeting based on property size rather than value.

For a well-rounded approach, consider averaging the results of all three methods or selecting the one that best aligns with your property’s condition and location.