It is essential for Saraland property managers to be aware that winter is when extra maintenance is needed. Most individuals only consider the seasonal tasks that need to be done, such as putting away outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system. While these are vital, other duties must be done to keep your rental property in great shape during the winter months. Keep reading to learn more about the most important winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
One of the most important winter maintenance responsibilities for rental property owners is dealing with any exterior damage that may have arisen over the summer. This may include fixing cracks in windows or doors, replacing broken shingles on the roof, and restoring broken siding.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- clear any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- examine and repair outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to avoid rats
- wash and store outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and place hoses neatly in a shed or garage
- clean and examine all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
In addition, there are a few maintenance tasks that rental property owners must do indoors. The most critical aspect is to keep your property well-insulated throughout the winter months. This can entail assessing and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to stop drafts, putting insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to prevent them from freezing during periods of extreme cold.
Other important interior maintenance tasks are:
- remove and store 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 give your renters instructions for how to do it (counterclockwise is best for cooler weather)
- check the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Ongoing Winter Maintenance
In addition to seasonal maintenance, there are a few ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to stay in the know about.
For illustration, if your rental property is in an area that gets snow in winter, a key (ongoing) activity for you is frequently clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps. Be prepared for snow removal with the appropriate shovels or plowing service. Furthermore, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand on hand to assist in keeping walkways clear of ice.
In regions with heavy snow or freezes, it’s imperative to inspect your rental’s roof and gutters regularly for ice dams and snow damage. Constant cycles of thawing and freezing water can inflict havoc on a roof and source of flooding or other water damage. To stop expensive emergency repairs, keep a watchful eye on your property in winter weather and, if needed, acquire a professional to evaluate and repair your roof immediately.
Other ongoing maintenance tasks that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system are to make sure the furnace filter is changed every three months (or more often, as needed) and encourage your tenants to keep interior doors open. This can help warm air circulate more effectively and keep the indoor air free from common pollutants.
If you are in search of more winter maintenance tips for rental property owners, you need to consult with a professional who is acquainted with the special needs of rental homes. Dealing with an experienced Saraland property management company like Real Property Management Azalea City can help guarantee your rental property stays in a good state throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!
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