Rental Property Make-Ready Checklist for Tampa Bay Landlords
A rental make-ready includes AC servicing, painting, cleaning, drywall repair, flooring inspection, lock rekeying, and appliance checks. TBCRN can coordinate all of these through one referral, saving landlords from managing multiple vendors.
Why Make-Ready Matters
A well-executed make-ready reduces vacancy time, attracts quality tenants, and prevents maintenance calls during the tenancy. In Tampa Bay's competitive rental market, a clean, well-maintained unit rents faster and for higher rates.
The Make-Ready Checklist
1. Rekey or replace all locks. 2. Inspect and service the AC. 3. Patch and paint walls. 4. Deep clean the entire unit. 5. Inspect and repair flooring. 6. Check all appliances. 7. Inspect plumbing for leaks. 8. Test smoke detectors. 9. Check for mold and moisture. 10. Inspect exterior and landscaping.
Florida-Specific Considerations
In Tampa Bay, AC servicing is critical between tenants — a clogged filter or low refrigerant can cause the unit to fail during the next tenant's occupancy. Humidity control is also important: run the AC during vacancy to prevent mold. Check for water stains and mold in bathrooms, under sinks, and near windows.
Coordinating Multiple Trades
A typical make-ready involves painting, cleaning, AC service, drywall repair, and possibly flooring or plumbing. Instead of scheduling each trade separately, TBCRN can coordinate all referrals through one request — saving landlords time and ensuring trades are sequenced correctly.
How TBCRN Helps Landlords
TBCRN serves as a single point of contact for all trades needed during a make-ready. Submit one request describing the turnover needs, and TBCRN routes it to the appropriate available professionals. Our referral service is free to the property owner.
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Last updated June 1, 2026. Published by TBCRN (Tampa Bay Contractor Referral Network). This article is for general informational purposes and does not constitute professional advice.