The responsibility to maintain a rental income property comes with income producing property ownership; some maintenance being common sense, and some a legal requirement.

For example, in addition to keeping the buildings up to fire and safety codes, many states and localities have laws and ordinances that require rental income property owners to remove junk cars.

In fact, many state and local laws forbid the existence of junk and unregistered cars at rental income properties. In this case, owners will be held accountable for this and can be punished by fines and imprisonment if the situation is not remedied.

Regardless, smart real estate investors should not permit junk and unregistered cars to remain at a property for any reason because it looks bad and sends the wrong message to prospective tenants. And it’s contagious–when one show up it usually isn’t long before more will.

There are towing services available to help remove these automobiles when they either are not moved by the owner or are abandoned. Just be sure to contact your state and local authorities regarding the removal of such automobiles and be sure it is done properly so that you are not held liable for tampering with someone’s personal property.

Remember, the investment property represents your future wealth; and your future wealth means college tuitions, travel, and retirement. Don’t let the shortcomings of a few tenants who deify junk ruin it for you.

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