It is absolutely essential for rental property owners to acknowledge that the winter season necessitates additional maintenance. Although some individuals only think about seasonal tasks like storing outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system, additional vital tasks must be completed to guarantee that your rental property remains in good condition during winter.
Keep reading to learn more about the most important winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Winter Exterior Home Maintenance
One of the most significant winter maintenance tasks for a rental property owner is to repair any exterior damage that took place during the warmer months. This could include repairing cracks in windows or doors, replacing broken shingles on the roof, and repairing broken siding.
Some noteworthy tasks for maintaining the exterior of your home include:
- Eliminating any debris from the gutters and downspouts.
- Reviewing and repairing outdoor lighting.
- Covering intake vents with screens to prevent rodent intrusion.
- Cleaning and storing outdoor furniture and grills.
- Draining hoses and sprinkler systems and neatly storing hoses in a shed or garage.
- Cleaning and inspecting all fireplaces and chimneys.
Indoor Maintenance Tasks
Indoor maintenance tasks are critical for rental property owners. Another critical factor is making sure your home is well-insulated throughout the winter. This may include inspecting 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.
Some necessary tasks for maintaining the interior of your home include:
- Removing and storing any window-mounted air conditioning systems.
- Servicing your HVAC system to guarantee it is in good working order.
- Reversing the direction of your ceiling fans (counterclockwise is preferable for cooler weather).
- Checking the batteries on all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Prevent Injuries and Property Damage
If your rental property is in a snowy area, it is necessary to clear snow from walkways, driveways, and steps on a regular basis. This will help prevent slips and falls, which can result in injuries and potential lawsuits. To prevent ice buildup, keep shovels, a plowing service, and bags of snow melt, salt, or sand on available.
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 critical to do monthly maintenance tasks on your rental property’s HVAC system to keep it running smoothly. One such chore is to change the HVAC filter in your rental property every three months, or more frequently if necessary. This is because a filthy filter can limit airflow, leading the system to work harder and use more energy. By changing the filter on a regular basis, you may increase the system’s performance and reduce energy costs.
Enjoy peace of mind this winter! Working with a skilled property management company is the key to protecting your rental property in any conditions. Contact Real Property Management Resources today to see how we can assist safeguard and maintain your investments in Piedmont and surrounding areas, ensuring a worry-free season ahead. Contact us online or by phone at 405-787-4429.
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