by Siobhan Cerney
Posted on 2019-10-07 10:17:01
Preparing Rental Properties for Winter
As the winter months approach and temperatures start to lower each passing day, winterizing your properties will help prevent any avoidable damage.
Having a certified HVAC technician check the system in the Fall will ensure everything is working properly. Any repairs will be done before the heat is needed and there will not be any surprises in the middle of winter. The technician should also check if the filter needs to be changed. Informing tenants to change the filter between 1-3 months depending on the system and the check if the vents are working properly. The outside A/C unit should have a cover placed on it, so when warmer weather begins again, it will have no problems turning on.
Before colder temperatures, clean the gutters of debris. Melting snows may not drain properly and can cause leaks on the roof. Inspecting the roof before winter comes we also prevent leaks once the snow begins to melt. Check the doors and windows for any gaps or it needs weather stripping to prevent drafts through the winter. If the windows are single pane, consider wrapping them in window plastic to keep the draft out.
Make sure you have a reliable snow and ice removal company contacted before the first snowfall. Most companies will not be able to take new clients if you contact them after the snow begins to fall. Go over existing contracts and evaluate if the services were adequate the previous year, the prices were fair, and if you would like to continue to use them. If maintenance handles the snow removal, be sure to prepare them with the proper equipment, shovels, salt, and snow blowers, prior to the snowfall.
Any vacant properties should be visited multiple times throughout the winter months, especially when sub-zero temperatures are predicted. You would want to check if any pipes have burst to cause water damage.
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