Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
Addressing any exterior damage that may have happened over the summer is among the most critical winter maintenance duties for rental property owners. Repairing cracks in windows or doors, replacing damaged shingles on the roof, and fixing broken siding are all examples.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- remove any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- inspect and fix outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to prevent rats
- wash and preserve outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and put hoses properly in a shed or garage
- clean and examine all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
Furthermore, there are several maintenance tasks that rental property owners must perform indoors. The most important thing is to keep your property well-insulated throughout the winter months. This can include examining and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to avoid 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 include:
- removing and installing 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 give your renters directions for how to do it (counterclockwise is ideal for cooler weather)
- check the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Ongoing Winter Maintenance
Together with seasonal maintenance, there are some ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to stay on top of.
For instance, if your rental property is situated in a location that gets snow in winter, an important (ongoing) duty for you is frequently clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps. Be ready for snow removal by purchasing appropriate shovels or plowing services. In addition, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand close by to help keep walkways clear of ice.
In places with heavy snow or freezes, it’s critical to frequently inspect your rental’s roof and gutters for ice dams and snow damage. Frequent cycles of thawing and freezing water can inflict damage on a roof and cause flooding or other water damage. Keep a constant check on your property in winter weather and, if needed, get a professional to examine and fix your roof immediately to prevent expensive emergency repairs,
Other ongoing maintenance duties that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system include changing the furnace filter every three months (or more frequently, as desired) and encouraging 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’re seeking more winter maintenance ideas for rental property owners, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional familiar with the special needs of rental homes. Engaging with an experienced Jamaica property management company like Real Property Management New York Gold may assist in ensuring your rental property remains in excellent condition throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!