As Williamson County property managers, it’s vital to keep in mind that winter is when extra maintenance is required. Several individuals only consider the seasonal tasks that need to be done, such as putting away outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system. Though these are critical, other duties are necessary to keep your rental property in great shape during the winter months. Keep reading to learn more about the most vital winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
Repairing any exterior damage that may have occurred over the summer is one of the most crucial winter maintenance duties for rental property owners. This can entail repairing cracks in windows or doors, replacing broken shingles on the roof, and mending damaged siding.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- clear any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- check and repair outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to keep rodents out
- clean and store outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and store hoses neatly in a shed or garage
- clean and inspect all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
In addition, there are many maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to perform indoors. The most vital task is making sure your property is appropriately insulated throughout the winter months. This can require adding insulation in attics and basements, checking and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to stop drafts, and insulating pipes to keep them from freezing during periods of extreme cold.
Other important interior maintenance tasks include:
- discard and store any window-mounted AC units
- service your HVAC system and verify it’s in good working order
- reverse the direction of the ceiling fans, or provide your renters with guidelines on how to do it (counterclockwise is ideal for cooler weather)
- check the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Ongoing Winter Maintenance
Apart from seasonal maintenance, there are some ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to remain aware of.
For instance, if your rental property is positioned in an area that experiences snow in winter, an important (ongoing) responsibility for you is constantly clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps. Use the appropriate shovels or plowing service to be prepared for snow removal. Plus, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand around to help keep walkways clear of ice.
It’s advisable to routinely inspect your rental’s roof and gutters for ice dams and snow damage in places with heavy snow or freezes. Frequently cycles of thawing and freezing water can damage a roof and lead to flooding or other water damage. To prevent pricey emergency repairs, pay close attention to your property in winter weather and, if appropriate, get a professional to promptly check and repair your roof.
Additional ongoing maintenance responsibilities that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system are to make sure the furnace filter is replaced every three months (or more regularly, as needed) and tell 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 looking for further winter maintenance suggestions for rental property owners, it’s necessary to consult with a professional who knows the particular demands of rental homes. Collaborating with an experienced Williamson County property management company like Real Property Management Advisors can help ensure your rental property stays in great shape throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!
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