As a rental property owner, you should be aware that winter calls for additional maintenance. There are other essential things that must be done to ensure that your rental property remains in good condition during winter, even though some people only think about seasonal tasks like storing outdoor furniture or turning off the irrigation system.
Continue reading to find out more about the most crucial winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Winter Exterior Home Maintenance
One of the most significant winter upkeep duties for a rental property owner is to address any exterior damage that may have occurred during the summer. Repairing cracks in windows or doors, replacing damaged siding, and replacing missing shingles from the roof all possible.
Some noteworthy tasks for maintaining the exterior of your home include:
- Debris removal from gutters and downspouts.
- Examining and mending external lighting fixtures.
- Covering intake vents with screens to stop rodents from entering.
- Upkeep and storing outdoor furniture, such as grills.
- Draining hoses and sprinkler systems and putting them in a shed or garage for tidy storage.
- Cleaning and inspecting all fireplaces and chimneys.
Indoor Maintenance Tasks
A rental property owner needs to perform regular indoor maintenance tasks. An additional crucial factor to consider is whether your property is adequately insulated for the winter. This could involve installing weatherstripping around doors and windows, insulating pipes to keep them from freezing in freezing weather, and adding insulation to attics and basements in order to prevent drafts.
Some necessary tasks for maintaining the interior of your home include:
- Any air conditioners installed on your windows should be removed and stored.
- Checking that your HVAC system is operating properly by servicing it.
- Rotating your ceiling fans in the other direction (in cooler weather, counterclockwise works best).
- Checking the batteries in each and every smoke and carbon monoxide detector.
Prevent Injuries and Property Damage
If your rental property is in a snowy area, clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps on a regular basis is crucial. This will help prevent slips and falls, which could lead to injuries and potential lawsuits. Make sure you have adequate shovels, a plowing service, and bags of sand, salt, or snow melt on standby to prevent ice buildup.
It is imperative that you monitor the 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 keeping on top of these winter maintenance tasks and making sure your renters are safe and comfortable, you can protect your rental property from potential damage and costly repairs.
Additional Winter Maintenance
In order to make sure that the HVAC system in your rental property is performing at its best, it is essential to perform regular maintenance tasks. One of these responsibilities is to change the HVAC filter in your rental property once every three months, or more frequently if needed. This is because a dirty filter may block airflow, which would force the system to work harder and use more energy. By regularly replacing the filter, you may improve system efficiency and reduce energy costs.
This winter, savor mental peace! Collaborating with a seasoned property management company is the key to safeguarding your rental property regardless of the weather conditions. To find out how we can protect and manage your investments in Hollywood and the surrounding areas, contact us at Real Property Management Coral right now. We can ensure a worry-free season. Send an email or give 954-708-1222 a call.
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