Handrails are often overlooked when it comes to property maintenance, especially in older rental homes and multi-unit buildings. But these seemingly small features play a big role in tenant safety, building compliance, and long-term property value. If you own rental property in South Side Chicago with aging housing stock, consider taking a closer look at those old metal railings.
Why Handrail Maintenance Is So Critical
1. Safety First
Far more than a courtesy, handrails are a legal safety feature. They help prevent slips and falls on staircases, porches, and elevated walkways. Older adults, children, and people with mobility challenges rely heavily on them. If a handrail is loose, rusted, or unstable, it can cause more harm than good.
2. Liability Risks
A faulty handrail is a lawsuit waiting to happen. If a tenant or visitor gets hurt because of a faulty railing, the property owner can be held liable. Insurance might help cover some costs, but it doesn’t fix the damage to your reputation or tenant trust.
3. City Code Violations
In Chicago, handrails must meet specific requirements under local building codes. This includes proper height, spacing, anchoring, and strength. A rusted-out railing or missing balusters could result in a code violation. The City of Chicago conducts regular building inspections, and handrails are one of the most cited deficiencies in older properties.
Why Metal Railings Deserve Special Attention
Many older buildings in Chicago feature decorative or utilitarian metal handrails, often made from wrought iron or galvanized steel. While strong and long-lasting, metal railings are vulnerable to:
- Rust and corrosion, especially when exposed to snow and rain (hello, Chicago weather)
- Cracking at weld joints due to age and wear
- Loosened bolts or anchors from repeated movement and freeze-thaw cycles
- Paint chipping, which accelerates rust and weakens structural integrity
These issues can sneak up on you. What looks like “just a little rust” can mask deeper problems that compromise the entire railing.
How to Maintain and Remediate Handrails
If your property has older metal railings, here’s a quick checklist to keep them safe and compliant:
1. Inspect Regularly
Do a hands-on inspection twice a year. Wiggle the railing to check for looseness. Look closely at the base, weld points, and anywhere metal meets concrete or wood.
2. Remove Rust
Use a wire brush or grinder to remove surface rust. If rust has pitted the metal or caused flaking, you may need to replace the affected section.
3. Repaint With Rust-Inhibiting Primer
After cleaning, apply a rust-inhibiting primer and outdoor-grade paint to extend the life of the metal.
4. Tighten and Replace Hardware
Replace any missing or corroded bolts and anchor screws. Consider upgrading to stainless steel fasteners, which can better withstand Chicagoland weather.
5. Weld Repairs or Replacement
If the railing has cracked welds or wobbles even after tightening, call in a professional. A qualified welder or metal fabricator can reinforce or replicate damaged sections.
6. Consider Replacements for Older Rails
If your railing has extensive damage, it might be more cost-effective to replace it with a new system that meets modern codes and aesthetics. Powder-coated aluminum or new wrought iron options offer popular choices.
Resources and Support
At Marblestone Property Group, we emphasize routine maintenance as a key strategy for preserving property value and protecting tenants. The risks of deferred maintenance, particularly in aging South Side properties, eat away at ROI.
Hands-Off Handrail Maintenance
Maintaining handrails may not seem urgent, but it’s one of the most critical safety responsibilities a landlord has. In South Side Chicago, where many properties are over 50 years old, regular attention to metal railings can prevent injuries, legal problems, and major repair costs.
But you don’t have to handle handrails by yourself. MPG is a full-service property management company that can take care of all the details for you. We offer property owners a truly hands-off investing experience. Connect with us today to learn more or schedule a free rental analysis.