Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
Repairing any exterior damage that may have developed throughout the summer is among the most important winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners. Fixing cracks in windows or doors, replacing damaged shingles on the roof, and mending broken siding are all examples.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks entail:
- remove any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- check and fix outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to prevent rats
- wash and store outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and put hoses properly in a shed or garage
- clean and assess all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
Additionally, there are several maintenance tasks that rental property owners must perform indoors. Maintaining your property well-insulated throughout the winter months is the most critical factor. This may involve inspecting and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts, putting insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to keep them from freezing during periods of extreme cold.
Other important interior maintenance tasks are:
- removing and storing any window-mounted AC units
- service your HVAC system and ensure it is in good working order
- reverse the direction of the ceiling fans, or provide your renters’ directions for how to do it (counterclockwise is ideal for cooler weather)
- test the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Ongoing Winter Maintenance
Aside from seasonal maintenance, there are some ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to keep up with.
For instance, if your rental property is positioned in a region that experiences snow in winter, a key (ongoing) task for you is regularly clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps. Be ready for snow removal by having the right shovels or plowing services. In addition, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand on hand to help keep walkways clear of ice.
In regions with heavy snow or freezes, it’s crucial to frequently inspect your rental’s roof and gutters for ice dams and snow damage. Repeated periods of thawing and freezing water can cause damage to a roof and lead to flooding or other water damage. Keep a constant inspection on your property in winter weather and, if possible, acquire a professional to assess and fix your roof quickly to avoid costly emergency repairs,
Other ongoing maintenance obligations that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system includes cleaning the furnace filter every three months (or more frequently, as needed) and asking your tenants to keep interior doors open. This can help warm air circulate more efficiently and keep the indoor air free from common pollutants.
If you want more winter maintenance ideas for rental property owners, it’s an excellent idea to consult with a professional familiar with the unique needs of rental homes. Cooperating with an experienced Pocatello property management company like Real Property Management Pocatello may assist in ensuring your rental property remains in outstanding condition throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!