Roy property managers need to remember that winter is when extra maintenance is necessary. Numerous individuals only think about the seasonal tasks that need to be done, like putting away outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system. Though these are vital, there are other tasks you must undertake to keep your rental property in excellent shape throughout the winter months. Continue reading to learn more about the most significant winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
One of the most vital winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners is to patch up any exterior damage that may have arisen over the summer. This may include repairing cracks in windows or doors, replacing missing shingles on the roof, and repairing damaged siding.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- remove any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- test and fix outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to keep rodents out
- wash and organize outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and neatly put hoses in a shed or garage
- clean and inspect all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
Additionally, there are several maintenance tasks that rental property owners should perform indoors. The most crucial task is to ensure your property is adequately insulated throughout the winter months. This can include checking and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to stop drafts, placing insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to keep them from freezing during periods of extreme cold.
Other important interior maintenance tasks involve:
- detach and store any window-mounted AC units
- service your HVAC system and guarantee it’s in good working order
- reverse the direction of the ceiling fans, or give your renters tips for how to do it (counterclockwise is excellent for cooler weather)
- examine the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Ongoing Winter Maintenance
On top of seasonal maintenance, there are a few ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to keep well-informed about.
For example, if your rental property is in an area that has snow in winter, a key (ongoing) task for you is regularly clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps. To be ready for snow removal, use the right shovels or plowing service. In addition, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand available to help keep walkways clear of ice.
In areas with heavy snow or freezes, it’s critical to routinely check your rental’s roof and gutters for ice dams and snow damage. Frequent cycles of thawing and freezing water can ruin a roof and result in flooding or other water damage. Keep a watchful eye on your property in winter weather and, if possible, get a professional to assess and fix your roof straight away to prevent spending money on costly emergency repairs.
Make sure the furnace filter is changed every three months (or more often if needed), and remind your tenants to keep interior doors open. These are other ongoing maintenance activities that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system. This can help warm air circulate more efficiently and keep the indoor air free from common pollutants.
If you’d like additional winter maintenance ideas for rental property owners, it is advisable to consult with a professional who truly understands the particular needs of rental homes. Choosing an experienced Roy property management company like Real Property Management Northern Utah can help guarantee your rental property stays in great shape throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!
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