Santa Clara property managers must always remember that winter is when extra maintenance is necessary. Some people just think about 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 tasks are necessary to keep your rental property in excellent 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 transpired over the summer is one of the most critical winter maintenance duties for rental property owners. Replacing cracks in windows or doors, replacing broken shingles on the roof, and fixing damaged siding are some examples of what this can entail.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- remove any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- check and repair outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to prevent rodents
- clean and store outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and place hoses neatly in a shed or garage
- clean and inspect all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
Also, there are a couple of maintenance tasks that rental property owners must do indoors. The most vital thing is guaranteeing that your property is appropriately insulated throughout the winter months. This can include adding insulation in attics and basements, inspecting 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:
- 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 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
In addition to seasonal maintenance, there are some ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners should be aware of.
To give an instance, if your rental property is located in an area that has snow in winter, an important (ongoing) duty for you is constantly clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps. Prepare for snow removal by using the necessary shovels or plowing service. Additionally, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand on hand to help keep walkways clear of ice.
It’s recommended to routinely check your rental’s roof and gutters for ice dams and snow damage in places with heavy snow or freezes. A roof may become damaged by the frequent thawing and freezing water, which may result in flooding or other water damage. To avoid pricey emergency repairs, pay close attention to your property in winter weather and, if required, employ a professional to promptly inspect and repair your roof.
Additional ongoing maintenance duties that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system are to make sure the furnace filter is cleaned every three months (or more regularly, as needed) and tell 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 further winter maintenance ideas for rental property owners, it’s necessary to consult with a professional who knows the specific needs of rental homes. Collaborating with an experienced Santa Clara property management company like Real Property Management Southern Utah can assist you in ensuring your rental property stays in outstanding condition throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!
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