Remembering that winter requires additional maintenance is essential for any rental property owner. While there are some individuals who only consider seasonal tasks, such as storing outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system, there are other essential tasks that need to be completed in order to guarantee that your rental property remains in good condition during winter.
Continue reading to find out more about the most important winter maintenance tasks that every rental property owner needs to complete!
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
Indoor maintenance tasks are crucial for a rental property owner. In addition to this, it is essential to make certain that your property is adequately insulated during the winter months. This may involve inspecting and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts, adding insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to prevent them from freezing during freezing weather. All of these measures are intended to prevent drafts.
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
In winter, your rental property must be cleared of snow from walkways, roads, and steps. This will prevent slips and falls, which can result in injuries and potential lawsuits. To prevent ice buildup, have shovels, a plowing service, and snow melt, salt, or sand bags.
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
It’s crucial to carry out routine maintenance tasks to guarantee that your rental property’s HVAC system is operating at peak efficiency. Changing the HVAC filter in your rental property once every three months, or more frequently if required, is one such duty. This is due to the possibility that a dirty filter could obstruct airflow, making the system work harder and use more energy. You may increase system efficiency and reduce energy costs by routinely changing the filter.
Enjoy mental tranquility this winter! The secret to protecting your rental property in any weather condition is to work with a seasoned property management company. Get in touch with Real Property Management Sugarland right now to see how we can contribute to the preservation and protection of your Houston and surrounding area investments, guaranteeing a worry-free season to come. You can reach us via phone at 832-333-9923 or online.
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