As Rochester property managers, it’s necessary to keep in mind that winter is when extra maintenance is essential. Numerous people perceive only the seasonal tasks that need to be done, like putting away outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system. Although these are vital, there are other tasks you must perform to keep your rental property in good shape during the winter months. Keep reading to learn more about the most vital winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
Proper maintenance of any exterior damage that may have occurred during the summer is one of the most important winter maintenance responsibilities for rental property owners. For example, fixing cracks in windows or doors, replacing broken shingles on the roof, and restoring damaged siding.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- remove any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- check and restore outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to prevent rats’ access
- clean and store outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and organize hoses neatly in a shed or garage
- clean and inspect all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
What’s more, there are several maintenance tasks that rental property owners must do indoors. The most critical factor is safeguarding that your property is adequately insulated throughout the winter months. This may involve inspecting and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to stop drafts, placing insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to prevent them from freezing during periods of extreme cold.
Other important interior maintenance tasks include:
- clear and keep any window-mounted AC units
- service your HVAC system and make sure it’s in good working order
- reverse the direction of the ceiling fans, or provide your renters‘ instructions for how to do it (counterclockwise is preferred for cooler weather)
- check the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Ongoing Winter Maintenance
Together with seasonal maintenance, there are a handful of ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners must continue to keep track of.
For example, if your rental property is located in a region that gets snow in winter. In that case, one of your most critical (ongoing) obligations is regularly clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps. Be ready for snow removal with the right shovels or plowing service. In addition, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand close by to help keep walkways clear of ice.
In regions with heavy snow or freezes, it’s vital to monitor your rental’s roof and gutters often for ice dams and snow damage. Repeated cycles of thawing and freezing water can negatively impact a roof and lead to flooding or other water damage. To ensure minimal emergency repairs, keep a close eye on your property in winter weather and, if possible, engage with a professional to evaluate and repair your roof right away.
Cleaning the furnace filter every three months (or more often, as needed) and urging your tenants to keep interior doors open are two other ongoing maintenance tasks that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system. This can help warm air circulate more excellently and keep the indoor air free from common pollutants.
If you’re interested in more winter maintenance guidelines for rental property owners, you must consult with a professional who is well-versed in the particular needs of rental homes. Working with an experienced Rochester property management company like Real Property Management Silverstone can help ensure your rental property stays in good shape throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!
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