Are you looking for a way to make your investment property safer, more attractive, more marketable, or more profitable? Here are the reasons adding a deck railing on your investment property is a way to accomplish those goals.
The Building Code May Require a Deck Railing
The international codes for residential and commercial buildings require deck railings for decks more than 30 inches above the grade. The local building code for the municipality your property is located in may have a different standard.
For safety reasons, building codes also regulate deck features such as rail height, baluster spacing, and guardrail strength. It’s important to invest in high-quality railings that meet building code standards. As a property owner, you’re also responsible for seeing that the deck is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Low-quality materials or improper installation can expose you to liability.
A Deck Railing Can Reduce Liability and Risk of Injury
You may also be exposed to liability for failing to install a deck railing even if a railing is not required by the building code. Consider the consequences of a tenant or visitor sustaining a serious injury from falling from your deck. You could be held liable. The injured person may make a claim on your insurance policy, which in turn will cause your premium to increase. More importantly, the injured party may even successfully sue you.
Improved Curb Appeal Attracts Potential Tenants
Curb appeal probably isn’t a priority while you’re property is fully occupied. Yet, as a landlord, you know your property is going to experience periods of vacancy. Keeping those vacant periods as short as possible is a priority. And it’s curb appeal that gets those potential customers (tenants) excited about renting your property.
The right deck railing enhances your property’s curb appeal. Aluminum deck railings are available in a variety of colors to complement your property. The traditional spindle styling of PVC deck railings mimics the classic look of wood railings. Since PVC deck railings come in turned or spindle styles, you can choose the style that looks best with your property’s architecture. If you’re trying to attract high-quality tenants to your property, a custom railing may be your best option.
You’ll Have Another Tool in Your Marketing Toolbox
A deck railing makes your property more marketable. In your marketing photographs, the presence of a deck railing makes several statements about your property and its owner. A deck railing shows potential residents this property offers a beautiful and functional space to entertain outdoors. Potential tenants with families will see a safe place for children to play outdoors. Everyone realizes this is a property owner who cares about more than the bottom line. This property owner cares about the tenants’ safety and quality of life.
The Property Enhancement Supports Higher Rent
However, adding a deck railing is a property enhancement that can improve your bottom line. Although there is an upfront cost, a return on investment is possible since the new deck railing can be part of your strategy to increase rent. Are your tenants avoiding the deck as much as possible because it doesn’t have a railing? Add one. You’ve effectively enlarged their living space, which supports your plan to raise the rent.
A Durable Enhancement Boosts Long-Term Value
If you plan to sell your property in the years ahead, adding a deck railing can increase your property’s long-term value. Just as adding a deck railing makes your property more attractive to tenants, your property becomes more attractive to buyers too.
And you don’t have to worry about the deck railing succumbing to the elements in the intervening years. A high-quality deck railing lasts a long time. In fact, companies like Worthington Millwork are confident in the quality of their deck railings and offer long-term warranties as proof as that confidence.