I was born in Cincinnati, raised in England, and then returned to Cincy, where I graduated summa cum laude from NKU with a degree in Business. Before joining EquityTeam, I built a strong foundation in property management, with a focus on multi-family, Section 8, and single-family portfolios. I’m passionate about building strong communities, creating positive resident experiences, and delivering real results for Owner clients. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me outdoors - hiking, camping, or exploring new places. I love that my role at EquityTeam allows me to combine relationship-building, problem-solving, and industry-leading tech in a fast-paced environment to help both owners and residents succeed.
Personal
Favourite Food: Classic American Burger
Hobby: Camping
Favourite Artist/Musician: Linkin Park
Goto Destination: Alaska
24/7 Maintenance Line, WO oversight and management from our expert Property Services Managers (former inspectors and craftsmen) who advocate for the property’s best interest, ensure requested work is valid, and that any work performed is done well and at below-market pricing. Industry-leading technology allows us to communicate quickly and easily between Owners/Tenants/Managers/Vendors to make repairs in accordance with Owner’s “not-to-exceed” (NTE) amounts.
GUARANTEES (See terms)
1. Reduced Repairs Guarantee: Save 10% or more off the retail cost of repair work or we’ll credit you the difference PLUS 10% of the difference amount!
Regular inspections help Owners stay connected to the condition of their property, reduce liability, strengthen Owner’s position in security deposit disputes, and keep maintenance costs down over the long term by catching small problems before they become major repairs.
Everything typically needed for a standard eviction in compliance with state law.
Simplify Tenant utility bill mgmt, and significantly reduce Owner’s utility liability and headaches
Bad things can happen to even the most qualified Tenants. Eliminate concerns about a Tenant damaging your property, bankruptcy, divorce, health issues, job loss, economic variables, malicious damage, theft, and more! EquityTeam’s EXCLUSIVE “Protection Plus” (PP) offers complete peace-of-mind that your investment will continue to produce income.
Identifying rent increase opportunities, and the negotiation and coordination of signing a renewal.
Our comprehensive Lease offers many exclusive benefits to the Owner and Property that are only available while the unit is under ET’s management.
GUARANTEES (See terms)
1. Strongest Owner/Property advocating Lease the law will allow.
2. Mandatory Tenant-paid liability coverage protects Owner up to $100k.
3. Filter replacement program (tenant paid) to ensure HVAC systems are properly maintained.
4. Flexible payment options electronically or at local retailers.
5. Utility concierge and account management services keep an eye on Tenant-paid utility balances so they don’t become an Owner problem.
6. 24/7 maintenance with industry-leading technology.
Everything needed to quickly procure the most qualified Tenant for the property; from advertising to lease signing, in complete compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
GUARANTEES (See terms)
1. 12 Month Stay Guarantee: Our Tenant will stay for a minimum of 12 months or we’ll prorate the next Placement accordingly.
2. 21 Day or Less Leasing Signing Guarantee: We’ll find a Tenant for your vacancy within 21 days or we’ll credit the Management Fee until we do.
Rent Collection, Transparent Accounting, ACH Owner Draws, Dedicated Expert Property Manager Primary Point-of-Contact, Strong Tenant Management and Lease Enforcement, Owner-aligned pricing model
GUARANTEES (See terms)
1. 90 Day Satisfaction Guarantee: If either party wants to cancel within the first 90 days, we’ll refund ALL paid Onboarding, and Management Charges.
2. Pet Damage Guarantee: We’ll cover pet-related damages up to $2000
3. 24 Hour Response Guarantee: We’ll return your call or email within 24 business hours, or we will credit your account $25
4. Accounting Accuracy Guarantee: If we make an accounting error, we’ll fix it and credit you 10% of the error difference.
How to Know if Your Rental Meets Safety Standards
Key Takeaways
Safety Standards Protect Everyone – Meeting housing safety requirements ensures properties are habitable, safeguards tenant health, and shields landlords from costly fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage.
Proactive Maintenance is Essential – Addressing key areas like fire safety, electrical systems, plumbing, ventilation, and security not only prevents major issues but also preserves property value and attracts long-term tenants.
Staying Informed and Supported Matters – Landlords should stay updated on housing laws, use standardized checklists, and consider partnering with a professional property management company like EquityTeam to ensure ongoing compliance and peace of mind.
One of the most essential responsibilities that landlords have to fulfil for their tenants is ensuring that the home complies with established standards and is safe for habitation. If a property fails to meet safety requirements, it will pose risks to renters’ well-being and expose the landlord to reputational harm, financial penalties, and legal penalties.
In this article, we at EquityTeam will explore safety regulations, identify high-risk areas, and discuss how to ensure compliance with the habitability and safety standards.
Safety standards are designed for essential purposes such as preserving the health, life, and dignity of occupants. When tenants rent a property, the space provided must be habitable and cannot expose them to injury, illness, and unnecessary risks.
Landlords who comply with safety standards enjoy numerous benefits including:
Tenant Retention – Long-term tenants are attracted to safe and well-maintained properties.
Peace of Mind – When you comply with safety standards, you worry less about accidents, insurance disputes, and emergencies.
Property Value – By making safety updates to the rental property, landlords can reduce long-term repair costs and boost their property’s value.
Legal Compliance – Residential landlords who adhere to safety standards prevent fines and lawsuits.
Understanding Housing Safety Standards
Landlords are expected to stay updated on local and national requirements. Safety standards may vary across different locations, but the follow apply to most residential buildings:
National Housing Standards – These are the general regulations that provide baseline expectations for all rental properties across the country.
Local Building Codes – These codes provide specifications for construction and structural requirements.
Fire Codes – These regulate fire prevention systems, alarms, and exits to ensure fire safety.
Health and Safety Codes – These codes specify minimum conditions for ventilation, sanitation, and habitability.
Essential Safety Areas for Rental Properties
Structural Integrity
A structurally sound property is the baseline of rental safety. Tenants should be protected from exposure to harsh elements, property collapse, or deterioration. For instance, walls and roofs should not show signs of instability, leaks, or cracks. Windows and doors should also operate smoothly, fit securely, and protect from outdoor weather.
Fire Safety
One of the worst risks in residential housing is a fire. As such, fire safety measures are non-negotiable.
Fire safety features here include:
Carbon Monoxide Detectors – If the rental has an attached garage or appliances that burn fuel, then this is mandatory.
Smoke Detectors – These should be installed in every bedroom, living area, and hallway. Ensure you also test them regularly and change the batteries as needed.
Clear Exits – Windows, doors, and other exits should not have obstructions.
Fire Extinguishers – These should be kept in areas that are accessible, especially kitchens and utility rooms.
Electrical Wiring – The electrical wiring be free of overloaded circuits and should meet safety codes.
When wiring is faulty, it exposes occupants to the risk of electrocution and fire. Landlords should hire professionals to inspect their properties periodically to ensure compliance and avoid hidden hazards. Areas to check include appliances, lighting (interior and exterior), circuit breakers, and grounded outlets.
Plumbing
For a rental property to be safe, it should have access to clean water. The property can experience damage or violate safety standards if it has unaddressed plumbing issues. Consider the following:
Hot Water – There should be an adequate supply of hot water for cleaning and bathing.
Potable Water Supply – The water pressure should be normal and consistent to prevent plumbing issues. Ensure that the water is free from contaminants.
Leak Prevention – Ensure that fixtures and pipes are free from leaks, water damage, or mold growth.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Quality
Indoor air quality also determines comfort and health. With proper ventilation, you can minimize the risks of property damage and respiratory illnesses caused by dampness.
Areas of consideration here are:
Heating Systems – These should be efficient and functional.
Ventilation – There should be adequate airflow in and out of the bathrooms and kitchens to prevent moisture buildup.
Air Quality – The air should be free of hazardous mold, asbestos, and lead-based paints.
Cooling – In areas that have hot weather, it’s a legal requirement for landlords to provide functional and adequate air conditioning systems.
Security Measures
Part of the safety features a rental property should have includes the ability to protect against crime, such as break-ins and theft. Landlords are expected to provide:
Functional locks on all exterior windows and doors.
Intercoms and access control for multi-unit properties.
Adequate outdoor lighting for walkways, parking areas, and entrances.
Only deliberate and ongoing efforts will determine if a rental property meets safety standards. Tenants also have a role to play when addressing safety issues. Encourage your tenants to report safety issues early and use property features responsibly.
If you need help managing your rental properties and all the responsibilities associated with ownership, consider working with a trusted property management company like EquityTeam. Contact us today and experience professional services!
Key Takeaways Annual Maintenance and Safety Checks Are Crucial: Regularly testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, inspecting for water leaks, and cleaning gutters helps prevent costly damage and ensures tenant safety and compliance with local regulations....
Key Takeaways Understanding Property Management Fees: Property management costs can vary depending on the company, property type, and range of services provided. Common fees include setup fees, ongoing management fees, tenant placement fees, lease renewal fees, and...
Key Takeaways Tenant Painting Can Create Costly Issues – While it may seem harmless, tenant DIY paint jobs often result in poor-quality finishes, difficult-to-cover colors, and added repair expenses, ultimately impacting property value and delaying turnovers....
Key Takeaways Boost Rental Income Without Raising Rent - Property owners can increase revenue through creative, tenant-friendly strategies like offering paid parking, pet rent, or on-demand services, adding value for residents without burdening them with higher...
Key Takeaways Stay Organized and Document Everything - Starting early and keeping detailed records of rent payments, income and expenses, repair costs, and more is essential for a smooth tax season. Well-organized documentation not only simplifies filing but...
Key Takeaways Match the Communication Method to the Message and Situation - Effective communication depends on choosing the right tool for the context. Use email for formal documentation and notices, text messaging for quick updates, and phone calls for urgent...
Key Takeaways Annual Maintenance and Safety Checks Are Crucial: Regularly testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, inspecting for water leaks, and cleaning gutters helps prevent costly damage and ensures tenant safety and compliance with local regulations....
Key Takeaways Understanding Property Management Fees: Property management costs can vary depending on the company, property type, and range of services provided. Common fees include setup fees, ongoing management fees, tenant placement fees, lease renewal fees, and...
Key Takeaways Tenant Painting Can Create Costly Issues – While it may seem harmless, tenant DIY paint jobs often result in poor-quality finishes, difficult-to-cover colors, and added repair expenses, ultimately impacting property value and delaying turnovers....
Key Takeaways Boost Rental Income Without Raising Rent - Property owners can increase revenue through creative, tenant-friendly strategies like offering paid parking, pet rent, or on-demand services, adding value for residents without burdening them with higher...
Key Takeaways Stay Organized and Document Everything - Starting early and keeping detailed records of rent payments, income and expenses, repair costs, and more is essential for a smooth tax season. Well-organized documentation not only simplifies filing but...
Key Takeaways Match the Communication Method to the Message and Situation - Effective communication depends on choosing the right tool for the context. Use email for formal documentation and notices, text messaging for quick updates, and phone calls for urgent...
Key Takeaways Annual Maintenance and Safety Checks Are Crucial: Regularly testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, inspecting for water leaks, and cleaning gutters helps prevent costly damage and ensures tenant safety and compliance with local regulations....
Key Takeaways Understanding Property Management Fees: Property management costs can vary depending on the company, property type, and range of services provided. Common fees include setup fees, ongoing management fees, tenant placement fees, lease renewal fees, and...
Key Takeaways Tenant Painting Can Create Costly Issues – While it may seem harmless, tenant DIY paint jobs often result in poor-quality finishes, difficult-to-cover colors, and added repair expenses, ultimately impacting property value and delaying turnovers....
Key Takeaways Boost Rental Income Without Raising Rent - Property owners can increase revenue through creative, tenant-friendly strategies like offering paid parking, pet rent, or on-demand services, adding value for residents without burdening them with higher...
Key Takeaways Stay Organized and Document Everything - Starting early and keeping detailed records of rent payments, income and expenses, repair costs, and more is essential for a smooth tax season. Well-organized documentation not only simplifies filing but...
Key Takeaways Match the Communication Method to the Message and Situation - Effective communication depends on choosing the right tool for the context. Use email for formal documentation and notices, text messaging for quick updates, and phone calls for urgent...
