Fall is officially here, and cold winter weather won’t be far behind. Since winter temperatures can take a toll on buildings in many parts of the U.S., now is an ideal time to take care of maintenance at your rental properties. Performing basic maintenance now will ensure you’ll spend less time (and money) on roofing, plumbing, and other repairs in the spring.
To help you give your property a complete once-over, we’ve created a handy checklist on everything you should check before winter arrives.
Indoor Maintenance
Before starting interior maintenance, it’s always a good idea to review your insurance policy to ensure you have the coverage you need for unexpected repairs caused by seasonal storms.
- Check the doors, windows, and locks
Make sure all the doors, windows, and locks work properly, and lubricate any rough or sticking mechanisms. You should also inspect doors and windows for any cracks or drafts that could raise heating bills or make residents uncomfortable. Repair or replace any damaged caulking or weather-stripping.
- Check the chimney and fireplace
If your unit has a chimney and fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep.
- Test the thermostat
Make sure the thermostat is working properly by switching it from cooling to heat and setting the temperature a few degrees higher than it currently is in the room. If the heat doesn’t come on after a few moments, check the batteries and wiring. If this doesn’t solve the issue, contact a professional HVAC company.
- Replace furnace air filters
If you have a furnace in your unit, replace the air filters. Dirty filters will reduce the efficiency of your system and lead to higher energy bills, lower heat output, and increased wear and tear on the system. They can also affect indoor air quality, which can be a serious health concern for tenants who have respiratory conditions.
- Have your HVAC serviced
HVAC systems should be serviced twice a year to keep them well-maintained—once in the spring, and once in the fall. An HVAC specialist will perform a thorough system inspection and cleaning, and let you know if there are any worn or damaged parts.
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
All the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested; replace the batteries as needed.
After you’ve completed your indoor inspection and repairs, it’s time to move on to outdoor maintenance.
Outdoor Maintenance
- Inspect the landscaping and trees
Rainstorms and snow can cause tree branches to break, so it’s important to make sure any branches that could threaten your building or outdoor structures are trimmed back. Consider hiring a professional tree trimmer to evaluate large trees and remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Trim bushes and remove leaves that have collected near exterior drains.
- Clean and inspect the gutters
Gutters should be inspected for cracks or other types of damage and repaired as needed. While you’re inspecting them, clear out any leaves, twigs, or other debris that could lead to clogs.
- Clean and inspect the roof
Clean off any leaves or debris that may have collected on the roof; while you’re up there, make sure to check for signs of damage, like weak areas or missing shingles. Repair or replace damaged areas as needed.
- Responsibility for snow removal
If your property is located in an area that gets snow, your lease should contain a clause about who (you or the tenant) is responsible for removing it. If you’re responsible for snow removal and you don’t plan to remove it yourself, secure a contract with a professional removal service before the busy season hits.
- Winterize your outdoor systems
If you have an outdoor sprinkler system, irrigation, or faucets, it’s important to winterize them to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Drain all the exterior pipes and close off the valves.
- Animal proofing
Rats, squirrels, raccoons, and other animals search for warm places to stay in the winter. To prevent them from nesting in the attic or basement, install metal screening over any potential entry points.
Tenant Fall Maintenance
Some of these maintenance items can also be completed by tenants; if you have specific tasks you’d like them to be responsible for, make sure they’re clearly outlined in your lease. Some examples of maintenance you may want to have your tenants do include:
- Testing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Winterizing exterior pipes
- Replacing HVAC filters
- Outdoor upkeep
You may also want to remind tenants to keep the thermostat set to 55 degrees Fahrenheit when they go on vacation to prevent frozen pipes.
A Little Preparation Now Can Go a Long Way Come Springtime
Each season requires special maintenance to keep your rental property comfortable and safe—and your investment protected. By taking care of these tasks now, you can ensure a smoother winter season. You may also want to consider sending out a reminder to tenants on ways they can keep their costs down and stay warm throughout the winter. A simple winter newsletter is an easy way to stay in contact with your tenants and offer some helpful advice. Preparing now will pay off once spring arrives!
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