How Landlords Can Improve Air Quality in Rentals Without Major Renovations

Rentals do not always allow for major building works, but there is still plenty landlords and property managers can do to support better indoor air. In many properties, the biggest gains come from keeping existing HVAC systems cleaner, choosing the right filter for the application, and paying closer attention to maintenance detail.

For occupiers, that can mean a more comfortable space. For owners and managers, it can help reduce avoidable build-up in plant and ductwork, while making routine upkeep more predictable.

Start with the filters already in the system

The simplest place to begin is the filter itself. A filter that is too restrictive for the system can create unnecessary strain, while one that is too light for the dust load may let more particles pass through and allow dirt to accumulate elsewhere.

For rental properties, it is worth checking:

• •the current filter size and frame style
• •whether the filter fits properly with no bypass gaps
• •the filter media type and its intended use
• •whether the system is supplying fresh air, return air, or both
• •whether the existing filter arrangement matches the space’s actual dust load

If you are unsure what is installed, how to measure an air filter is a useful place to start before ordering replacements.

If a property has older units, split systems, packaged units or simple mechanical ventilation, the current filter may not be the best fit for the site. In some cases, a small change in media type, frame depth or sealing method can improve capture of airborne dust without any major renovation work.

Keep the system sealed, seated and easy to service

Even a good filter will not perform properly if air can sneak around it. In rental properties, poor sealing is a common issue because filters are changed by different contractors over time, or because access panels and housings have seen a lot of use.

Practical checks that make a difference

• •confirm the filter is seated squarely in the frame
• •inspect for torn gaskets, bent frames or loose retaining clips
• •check that access doors close properly after servicing
• •make sure the filter type matches the holder, rather than being forced into place
• •look for signs of dust streaking around the edges, which can suggest bypass

This is especially important in properties that are hard to access, such as small rooftop plant spaces or ceiling-mounted units. If the filter housing is awkward to open, maintenance can be rushed, and that often leads to poor fitment and missed issues.

Where properties are being upgraded or refitted, custom air filters can be a practical option if an existing housing, frame or non-standard size needs to be matched precisely.

Build filter checks into routine property maintenance

Filter condition changes with the system, the site, and the amount of dust the building picks up. A property near a busy road, with ongoing internal works, or with more frequent tenant turnover may need more frequent attention than a quiet, low-use site. Rather than relying on a fixed calendar, inspect filters according to the equipment manufacturer instructions, the dust load and the site conditions.

Where gauges are fitted, pressure drop is one of the most useful indicators for planning filter servicing. A rising pressure drop can show that the filter is loading up and the system is working harder to move air. That does not automatically mean the filter must be replaced immediately, but it does mean the condition should be checked and the equipment manufacturer guidance followed.

A practical maintenance approach for landlords and facility managers is to:

• •include filter inspection in scheduled property visits
• •record the filter type and size fitted at each site
• •note any recurring dust issues, odours or visible debris around vents
• •ask contractors to report pressure drop readings where available
• •keep a simple history of service actions for each tenancy or building

For sites with multiple tenancies or shared systems, filter servicing can help keep records consistent and make it easier to manage replacements and inspections without guesswork.

Match the filter to the property use

Not every rental needs the same filtration approach. A compact apartment, a town house, a mixed-use building and a short-stay property may all have different operating patterns and different dust sources.

A practical approach is to think about what the property is trying to do, not just what brand of filter is already there.

Consider the main sources of airborne dust

• •traffic dust if the building is near a road
• •garden or landscaping debris entering through intakes or open windows
• •renovation dust from nearby works
• •lint and fibres from high occupant turnover
• •cooking by-products in units with limited kitchen extraction
• •general dirt build-up in common areas, storage rooms or corridors

If a property has ventilation requirements, those should be checked against [AS 1668.2:2024] and confirmed with the mechanical services engineer or building owner, particularly where changes to filtration are being considered. The right choice depends on the system design, pressure capability and how the property is actually used.

For some applications, higher efficiency filtration may be appropriate. In others, a more moderate option with a better fit and proper maintenance will be the more sensible answer. The aim is to keep the system clean and workable, not to select a filter in isolation.

Improve comfort without major refurbishment

Air quality in rentals is not only about the HVAC unit. Simple operational habits can also reduce dust movement and make interiors feel fresher.

Low-disruption improvements to consider

• •keep supply and return grilles clear of furniture and stored items
• •vacuum or wipe accessible vent covers during routine property care
• •check bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans for visible dirt build-up
• •address mould-prone areas quickly and investigate the cause of moisture
• •make sure external air intakes are not blocked by leaves, nesting material or rubbish
• •confirm that doors and windows close properly so unfiltered air is not constantly pulled in from problem areas

If the property has odour complaints, it is worth checking whether the issue is coming from a blocked exhaust path, a dirty filter, or air movement between units rather than assuming the source is the filter alone.

Some filters are designed to be washable - check the product instructions before cleaning or reusing them. Others are intended for replacement only, and washing can damage the media or reduce performance.

Keep a practical replacement plan, not a fixed calendar

One of the most useful habits for landlords is to treat filters as a tracked maintenance item rather than a set-and-forget consumable. The right replacement timing depends on the system, the site, the filter type and how quickly dust is loading the media.

A sensible plan usually includes:

• •the filter dimensions and product code
• •the filter type currently installed
• •the last inspection date and findings
• •any pressure drop readings, if fitted
• •notes on whether dust, lint or debris loads are increasing
• •the contact details of the contractor or supplier who handles replacements

This kind of record makes it easier to respond when a tenant reports weak airflow, dust build-up or unwanted odours. It also helps if you need to source the same style again or compare options for a different tenancy type.

If you are managing a portfolio, keeping a shortlist of standard filter sizes and compatible products can reduce delays when a unit needs attention. For specialised applications or unusual housings, our products may help you identify a suitable replacement range, and commercial filter servicing is available for more complex sites.

Practical support from Total Air Filtration

Total Air Filtration is a family-owned air filter manufacturer and supplier based in Hillcrest, Brisbane QLD, and we help landlords, property managers and facility managers find the right filter for the job. Whether you need a standard size, a custom fit or help understanding what is currently installed, we can assist with product selection and supply.

If you would like to talk through a property, a plant room or a recurring maintenance issue, call 07 3800 3448 or request a quote. You can also contact us to discuss options or industries we supply to see the types of sites we support.