Winter Maintenance of Your Rental Property
Whether or not you are ready for it, the winter weather is here. Although Atlanta winters aren’t too severe, the temperatures will be dipping into freezing temperatures before you know it. So, what does that mean for you? Winter weather can wreak havoc on an unprepared rental property. Don’t leave your property – or tenants – at risk. Now is the time to make sure your rental property is prepared to handle any winter weather conditions that may arise.
Not sure where to start? Check out this list of the key maintenance points that you will want to consider for your Atlanta rental property
Prepare your windows. Do a thorough inspection of all your windows. If there are any cracks or gaps, you will want to fill these before the first freeze. You can use a silicone-based caulk or the proper weather stripping.
Clean your gutters. Cluttered gutters can lead to a mess of a problem later. And, thanks to Fall, these gutters can be filled this time of year. Empty them of all debris and make sure they are clear and able to handle their job.
Check your roof. Look for any weak spots or any missing shingles that can lead to a leaky roof.
Insulate pipes. To keep your pipes from freezing, insulate any exposed pipes and turn off the water to outside faucets.
Revitalize your furnace. Call in the experts or check the system yourself. Either way, make sure your furnace is in tip-top shape before you need to use it.
Check for drafts. Foundations can shift over time and doors can swell and shrink with the weather. Before winter is in full force, check all your doors for drafts. If you discover any, make sure to caulk or use the appropriate weather stripping to keep the cold out and the heat in!
Your fireplace. If your rental property has a fireplace, it needs some attention before it can be used. First, make sure that the damper fits properly to seal off any drafts – and keeps everything out. Make sure that the flue is clean of any debris, including soot. And, last, make sure there are no cracks or jeopardized portions of the fireplace that may lead to some potentially life-threatening safety issues.
Check handrails. Ice can lead to some painful slips and falls. If your property has steps, a deck, or anything with handrails, you will want to make sure they are sturdy and secure in case they are used in an icy situation.
Vacant properties. Having a vacant property doesn’t give you a free pass. Do the same inspection whether you have tenants or not. For vacant properties, turn off the water to the property since it is not needed. And, because you will not have eyes and ears here, be sure to check in on the property throughout the winter.
Keep in mind that you aren’t the only one who will be preparing your property for the upcoming season. Therefore, you will want to start this preparation early to ensure that it is complete before Mother Nature decides to turn down the thermostat!
Marina Shlomov, a managing partner at ALH|Podland Realty & Rental Homes Property Management is the author of many articles on Landlording, Property Management, and Real Estate Investing. A residential builder in the state of Georgia since 1999, Marina is an investor herself. Her property management company is intended “For Investors” and “By Investors” for a simple reason – she knows what investors’ goals are and she works hard to reach their goals. In her spare time, Marina likes to spend time with her family, friends, garden, read and travel. Check her out at www.alhpodland.com. You can find Marina’s articles and comments at @rentalhomesatl on Twitter, on Facebook, Google+, Blogger. and YouTube, Bigger Pockets and REI CLub and LinkedIn.
