It is critical for rental property owners to know that winter necessitates additional maintenance. While some people only think of seasonal tasks like storing outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system, there are other critical tasks that must be completed to guarantee that your rental property remains in good condition during winter.
Continue reading to learn more about the most essential winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
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
As a rental property owner, you must conduct many maintenance tasks indoors. Another critical factor is ensuring that your home is well-insulated during the winter. Checking and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts, adding insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to keep them from freezing during freezing weather are all examples of what this entails.
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
If your rental property is in a snowy area, cleaning snow from walkways, driveways, and steps on a regular basis is vital. This will assist to prevent slips and falls, which can result in injuries and potential lawsuits. To prevent ice buildup, make sure you have appropriate shovels, a plowing service, and bags of snow melt, salt, or sand on available.
It’s also critical to keep an eye on your rental property’s roof and gutters during the winter, especially if you live in a region with heavy snow or freezing weather. 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
It is critical to do regular maintenance tasks on your rental property’s HVAC system to ensure that it is running smoothly. One such chore is changing the HVAC filter in your rental property every three months, or more frequently if necessary. This is due to the fact that a dirty filter can limit airflow, causing the system to work harder and use more energy. You may improve the system’s performance and reduce energy costs by changing the filter on a regular basis.
This winter, enjoy peace of mind! Working with a skilled property management company is essential for protecting your rental property in all conditions. Contact Real Property Management Ambassadors today to learn how we can help you safeguard and manage your investments in Dilworth and the surrounding areas, ensuring a worry-free season ahead. Contact us online or by phone at 701-970-2600.
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