How to Handle Rental Properties with Oil Heat
Most people in Massachusetts prefer to use oil heating system to keep their places warm. If you have an oil tank in a property that you plan to rent out to tenants, you need to be clear about who is responsible for the maintenance and refilling of the oil tanks. We know, it sounds…

Most people in Massachusetts prefer to use oil heating system to keep their places warm. If you have an oil tank in a property that you plan to rent out to tenants, you need to be clear about who is responsible for the maintenance and refilling of the oil tanks. We know, it sounds like additional work. But Green Ocean Property Management can help you! Here’s a brief explainer on what we do to handle rental properties with an oil heat system.
#1 We include tank refilling in contracts
We state in all contracts and leases that the tenants are responsible for ensuring the tanks are filled. If the tank goes empty and needs to be primed, they have to put it back into the system and the system has to be started back again. Tenants are also going to be responsible for the costs.
#2 We ensure there is oil in the tank during tenant transition
We ask our tenants to leave no less than an eighth of a full tank. That way, the new tenants will not be stuck with no oil, nor would they have to pay for refilling and repriming during their transition.
#3 We make sure the delivery company does general servicing
Many discount oil delivery companies don’t do repairs on any property they don’t deliver oil to. However, if you opt for bigger companies such as Devaney or McFarlane, they also have a service department. Remember, these companies will not do general services if they do not deliver oil.
#4 We give our tenants options for vendors
We always provide our tenants with three different vendors to choose from. These vendors are those we have already ties with, as well as those we have had commendable experience with. So when an issue happens, any of those chosen vendors can go and service the units for us.
#5 We help schedule services in advance
Just like any other type of heating system, we can get it serviced prior to the winter season. It’s even more important with the oil heat system, because the tank can get clogged and the filters need to be changed.
Our commitment
If you or anyone else you know is looking for a proactive property manager that can help you handle rental properties with oil heat, please think of Green Ocean Property Management: where you get more than a property manager, you get peace of mind.
How to Balance Property Management with Personal Life: Tips for Overworked Landlords
Feeling like your properties are running your life instead of the other way around? You’re not alone. Many landlords find themselves working around the clock, struggling to find time for themselves. But don’t worry – there are ways to take back control and enjoy your life while still managing your properties successfully. Here’s how you…
Effective Communication Strategies for Landlords and Tenants
A successful landlord-tenant relationship hinges on clear and consistent communication. Just like a strong bridge connects two points, effective communication allows both parties to feel heard, understood, and confident in their roles. When communication breaks down, misunderstandings arise, and minor issues can escalate into major conflicts. Let’s explore strategies to build a communication bridge that…
Who Should Pay the Public Utilities?
Paying of public utilities such as water and electricity can cause confusion to some landlords. In this article, we’re going to be covering whether you can have tenants pay the public utilities. Can they pay for public utilities? The answer is NO. Typically, what will end up happening is that each…