Remembering that winter requires additional maintenance is essential for any rental property owner. Other crucial tasks must be completed to ensure that your rental property remains in good condition during winter, even though some people only think of seasonal tasks like storing outdoor furniture or turning off the irrigation system.
Continue reading to learn more about the most important winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Winter Exterior Home Maintenance
Addressing any exterior damage that may have developed throughout the summer is one of the most significant winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners. This may entail replacing damaged shingles on the roof, repairing cracks in windows or doors, or replacing damaged siding.
Some noteworthy tasks for maintaining the exterior of your home include:
- Clearing any debris from the gutters and downspouts.
- Checking and repairing outdoor lighting.
- Covering intake vents with screens to keep rodents out.
- Cleaning and storing outdoor furniture and grills.
- Draining hoses and sprinkler systems and storing hoses neatly in a shed or garage.
- Cleaning and inspecting all fireplaces and chimneys.
Indoor Maintenance Tasks
Performing a variety of indoor maintenance tasks is crucial for rental property owners. Insulating your property adequately for the winter is an additional critical component. This may entail inspecting and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts, installing insulation in attics and cellars, and insulating pipes to keep them from freezing during freezing weather.
Some necessary tasks for maintaining the interior of your home include:
- Removing and storing any window-mounted air conditioning units.
- Servicing your HVAC system to ensure it is in good working order.
- Reversing the direction of your ceiling fans (counterclockwise is best for cooler weather).
- Checking the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Prevent Injuries and Property Damage
It is essential, if your rental property is located in an area that experiences winter snowfall, to remove snow from walkways, driveways, and steps on a regular basis. This will help to prevent slips and falls, which could result in injuries and potential lawsuits. To prevent ice buildup, be sure to have appropriate shovels, a plowing service, and containers of snow melt, salt, or sand on hand.
It’s also important to watch your rental property’s roof and gutters during winter, especially in areas with heavy snow or freezing temperatures. Repeated thawing and freezing cycles can cause significant damage to a roof and lead to flooding or other water damage. Ice dams, which form when snow melts and refreezes on the roof, can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly. Hiring a professional to inspect and repair your roof immediately is recommended to avoid costly emergency repairs.
By staying on top of these winter maintenance tasks, you can help ensure your tenants’ safety and comfort while protecting your rental property from potential damage and costly repairs.
Additional Winter Maintenance
Conducting routine maintenance tasks on the HVAC system of your rental property is crucial for ensuring its optimal operation. Changing the HVAC filter in your rental property every three months, or more often if required, is one such task. Because a dirty filter can obstruct ventilation, the system will have to work harder and use more energy. You can increase the system’s efficacy and reduce energy costs by regularly replacing the filter.
Enjoy a state of tranquility this winter! Collaborating with an expert property management firm is critical for ensuring the protection of your rental property during inclement weather. Contact Real Property Management Main immediately to learn how we can assist you in safeguarding and maintaining your Berkley and surrounding property investments so that you can enjoy a trouble-free season. By phone or online at 248-852-6204, Contact us to learn more!
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