Recently, I met with my attorney to develop a rental agreement for a property. I asked him what the top 3 issues he sees on the Outer Banks when it comes to litigation or liability claims for short-term rental property owners.
His immediate answer was injuries related to failing steps or decks, failed or broken gates around swimming pools, and concrete driveways or paths in disrepair. Frankly, I was not shocked as I saw more and more properties with rickety stairs or rotten railings and posts.
Not to mention driveways that are cracked and uneven. Our coastal weather here on the Outer Banks including Dare County and Currituck is harsh on the exterior of Coastal NC homes.
In addition, vegetation that is not cut back and maintained can wreak havoc on decks, stairs, exterior structures and your concrete. Equally important, as the rental market becomes increasingly competitive in this area, curb appeal is more important than ever.
This coupled with the rise of insurance companies using drones and aerial footage to assess risks and ever-dwindling insurance options in Northeastern NC, taking care of your exterior has never been more important. We recently posted a blog about insurance companies’ use of new technology that is impacting homeowners too!
Concrete
The one thing about concrete is that it will crack over time. Changes in temperature, heavy loads, vegetation or tree stumps can all cause issues with your concrete.
The problem is that once you have trip hazards, you run the risk of getting dropped. If folks are likely to trip or maybe fall off a bike, you have a potential lawsuit on your hand.
Recently, I had a client on the verge of tears because she had less than 6 weeks to completely tear out and replace her existing concrete or lose her homeowner’s insurance. Of course, we were able to help her and get the project squared away in a timely fashion for her, but she was distraught.
Sometimes, your existing concrete can simply be resurfaced or jacked to level it out again. However, the longer it goes without any work, the bigger problem you will have on your hands.
Many times, your best solution is to remove the existing concrete and start fresh (at least in the most problematic areas). During the “boom” of the early 2000s and COVID, many people and licensed general contractors were installing concrete simply to provide the required number of spots.
There was little thought about the aesthetics. Stamped borders or colored concrete will enhance your property.
Even if you just do standard broomed-finish concrete, adding a few curves here and there can make it much more aesthetically pleasing and increase curb appeal.
Exterior Decking As Extension of Your Living
If you ride down the beach on the Outer Banks, you will see house after house with at least one, and often more decks. In fact, most are second and third-story decks or balconies. Most of these decks are built with treated lumber. However, coastal climates like the OBX wreak havoc over time.
Structurally, many are not even built to current codes. My friends, not replacing a deck past its prime will come back to bite a homeowner as it is generally obvious to most that it is past its prime.
Also, people don’t come to the Outer Banks to be stuck inside! The more you do to invite folks to enjoy the outside of your home, the less wear and tear on the inside of your home.
Exterior decks and patios should be an extension of your property, not just a means of entry! In addition, your deck and driveway are two of the first things any visitor will see when they arrive at your property.
With more than 25 years of exterior design and Outer Banks construction, we possess the knowledge and experience to revitalize your decks and the exterior. Inviting outdoor spaces enhances the coastal living experience for property owners and visitors alike.
Similarly, with most properties being multiple levels, exterior stairs are the standard. Steps tend to be the hardest hit because they have the most foot traffic and wear and tear.
In addition, plants and other vegetation that is not maintained can hold moisture. Codes have also changed over time, yet there are so many exterior stairs that are not up to today’s standards.
With steps being the main means of entry to most Corolla and Dare County properties, it is surprising to see how many folks don’t consider the potential danger for themselves and their guests.
Benefits of Extending Exterior Living Spaces
Creating exterior living spaces encourages your family and guests to spend more time outside. Whether it’s adding a bar, fire pit, a cabana, or your latest Pinterest inspiration, offering more opportunities for outside recreation and relaxation.
If you are a rental property, your guests will love these outdoor amenities which could lead to more bookings! In a time with so much competition, folks need to realize it is more than the finest furnishings or exquisite interior design that will bring renters.
It is time to stand out and make your place fun and unique by extending your living space to include the outside of your property.
Revamping Curb Appeal
As more and more Corolla and Outer Banks properties become rentals, it is more important than ever to increase your curb appeal to stand out in the crowd. Even if the ocean or sound are literally at your back door, so are literally thousands of other OBX properties.
With more than 25 years in exterior design and construction, we at Island Contractors can help you transform your property by creating beautiful, functional exterior spaces. From planning your new decks to bars and built-in seating areas to plants, Island Contractors can assist you from planning through construction.
Our beautiful 3D conceptual designs also make it easy for you to truly envision your final project while also taking the appropriate steps to ensure your work is both permitted as required and installed properly.
Renovation Wisdom
High humidity, saltwater exposure, and other climatic and environmental factors challenge the longevity of your home’s exterior and other structures. Regular maintenance and repair reduce this impact.
Opting for top-tier, weather-resistant materials and expert installation increases the lifespan and safety of your exterior. At Island Contractors, we are happy to discuss the various options available to you for your OBX home.
Safety and Liability
Ultimately, it is a property owner’s responsibility to ensure the safety of others. Regular care and maintenance will extend the life of your home and accessory structures. It is important to regularly inspect both the interior and exterior of your property for potential risks… and remedy it as soon as possible.
If you are aware of an issue and do not address it, you may be found personally liable. Insurance companies are looking to minimize their risk more than ever right now, and homeowners may have their insurance not renewable with little warning.
As a licensed NC General Contractor, we handle the planning, permitting, and building of your project. Call today at 252-202-4301 and schedule a free on-site consultation of your project or use our contact form!