For rental property owners, it is imperative to bear in mind that winter necessitates extra maintenance. While certain individuals may only consider seasonal responsibilities like storing outdoor furniture or deactivating the sprinkler system, it is crucial to complete other essential tasks to guarantee the appropriate maintenance of your rental property over the winter season.
Read on to discover the crucial winter maintenance duties for landlords of rental properties!
Winter Exterior Home Maintenance
One of the most significant winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners is to address any exterior damage that may have occurred during the summer. This could involve repairing cracks in windows or doors, replacing broken shingles on the roof, and fixing 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
For rental property owners, it is crucial to carry out certain indoor maintenance tasks. Another essential factor is to ensure that your property is adequately insulated during the winter season. This may entail inspecting and putting weatherstripping around doors and windows to mitigate drafts, including insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to safeguard against freezing in extremely cold 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
Regularly removing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps is crucial for rental properties located in snowy regions throughout winter. This measure will aid in the prevention of accidents caused by slipping and falling, hence reducing the risk of injury and potential legal actions. Make sure you own appropriate shovels, a plowing service, and supplies of snow melt, salt, or sand readily available to avoid the formation of ice.
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
In order to guarantee optimal performance of the HVAC system in your rental property, it is crucial to carry out routine maintenance tasks. One specific chore involves replacing the HVAC filter in your rental property every three months or more often if needed. This occurs due to a contaminated filter that might impede the flow of air, resulting in increased strain on the system and higher energy consumption. Regularly replacing the filter can enhance the effectiveness of the system and lower energy expenses.
Enjoy tranquility during the winter season! Collaborating with a reputable property management company is essential for protecting your rental property from any weather-related risks. Contact Real Property Management Endeavor now to learn how we can safeguard and upkeep your investments in Chesterfield and the surrounding area, guaranteeing a stress-free upcoming season. Contact us online or call 636-244-5959.
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