As San Antonio property managers, we must remember that winter is when extra maintenance is required. Numerous citizens think of only the seasonal tasks that need to be done, including putting away outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system. Even though these are vital, there are other works you need to consider to keep your rental property in decent shape during the winter months. Keep reading to learn more about the most critical winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
The restoration of any exterior damage that may have developed over the summer is one of the most important winter maintenance duties for rental property owners. This may incorporate patching cracks in windows or doors, replacing broken shingles on the roof, and restoring damaged siding.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- clean any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- check and repair outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to keep rodents out
- rinse 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
Furthermore, there are several maintenance tasks that rental property owners must undertake indoors. The most vital component is ensuring that your property is properly insulated throughout the winter months. This could mean checking 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:
- 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
Besides seasonal maintenance, there are a couple of ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to catch pace with.
By way of illustration, if your rental property is situated in a location that has snow in winter, clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps is a critical (ongoing) task for you. Be prepared for snow removal by having the right shovels or plowing service. Also, have bags of snow melt, salt, or sand available to help keep walkways clear of ice.
It is vital to regularly monitor your rental’s roof and gutters for ice dams and snow damage in areas with heavy snow or freezes. Repetitive cycles of thawing and freezing water can deteriorate a roof and cause flooding or other water damage. Keep a constant eye on your property in winter weather and, if needed, contact a professional to inspect and repair your roof as soon as possible to avoid costly emergency repairs.
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 replaced every three months (or more frequently as needed) and urge 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 additional winter maintenance solutions for rental property owners, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional who is familiar with the unique needs of rental homes. Engaging with an experienced San Antonio property management company like Real Property Management Lonestar can help ensure your rental property stays in good form throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!
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