San Jose property managers need to keep in mind that winter is when extra maintenance is necessary. Many individuals focus on the seasonal tasks that need to be done, like putting away outdoor furniture or turning off the sprinkler system. Even though these are essential, there are other things you should do to keep your rental property in excellent shape throughout the winter months. Keep reading to learn more about the most crucial winter maintenance tasks for rental property owners!
Seasonal Maintenance – Exterior
One of the most important winter maintenance obligations for rental property owners is to address any exterior damage that may have been caused during the summer. This could include repairing cracks in windows or doors, replacing damaged shingles on the roof, and restoring broken siding.
Other important exterior maintenance tasks include:
- tidy up any debris from the gutters and downspouts
- check and repair outdoor lighting
- cover intake vents with screens to avoid pests’ access
- wash and store outdoor furniture and grills
- drain hoses and sprinkler systems and store hoses tidily in a shed or garage
- clean and inspect all fireplaces and chimneys
Seasonal Maintenance – Interior
Moreover, there are several maintenance tasks that rental property owners need to perform indoors. The most important task is to make sure that your property is correctly insulated throughout the winter months. This can include inspecting and installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to stop drafts, placing insulation in attics and basements, and insulating pipes to prevent them from freezing during periods of extreme cold.
Other important interior maintenance tasks are:
- remove and store any window-mounted AC units
- service your HVAC system and inspect if it’s in good working order
- reverse the direction of the ceiling fans, or instruct your renters how to do it (counterclockwise is best for cooler weather)
- check the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Ongoing Winter Maintenance
On top of seasonal maintenance, there are some ongoing winter maintenance tasks that rental property owners should stay on top of.
For instance, if your rental property is in an area that experiences snow in winter, clearing snow from walkways, driveways, and steps is a key (ongoing) obligation for you. To be prepared for snow removal, bring the appropriate shovels or plowing service. Plus, keep bags of snow melt, salt, or sand available to help keep walkways clear of ice.
In places with heavy snow or freezes, monitoring your rental’s roof and gutters frequently for ice dams and snow damage is advisable. Repeated phases of thawing and freezing water can damage a roof and lead to flooding or other water damage. Keep a watchful eye on your property in winter weather to avoid having to pay for expensive emergency repairs. If your roof needs to be inspected and fixed right away, get a professional.
Don’t forget to change the furnace filter every three months (or more often if needed), and ask your tenants to keep interior doors open. These are both ongoing maintenance responsibilities that can help improve the efficiency of your rental property’s HVAC system. This can help warm air circulate more effectively and keep the indoor air free from common pollutants.
If you’re looking for more winter maintenance guidelines for rental property owners, it’s advisable to consult with a professional who understands the unique demands of rental homes. The assistance of an experienced San Jose property management company like Real Property Management Silicon Valley can assist you in guaranteeing your rental property stays in excellent condition throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us online today to learn more!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
