Every year it feels like winter is becoming sneakier as it creeps up on us suddenly. Even in the warm climate of Arizona, those freezing night temperatures in central and northern Arizona lead to tenants shivering in their cold rental homes and apartments while they try to turn the heat up. If you own a rental property in the area, you want to make sure your tenants are kept comfortable while your rental home withstands the possible winter storms rolling through the region. Use the following 4 tips offered by AZ Residential Management to get your rental ready for whatever weather comes to the area this winter.
1. Exterior Inspection
Perform an exterior inspection of the house to look for issues with the roof, window, door and exterior walls. Ensure gutter systems are clear of debris and fastened tightly.
Also, you should make sure to check the roof area and walls for potential holes created by small animals, such as ground squirrels and chipmunks. Seal up any holes that you find and continually inspect the area and remove pests to prevent them from trying to reenter. Then evaluate the roof condition and the lifecycle of roofing materials. Consider repair or replacement of a poor quality roof before the winter arrive to prevent leaks and further damage.
2. Sealing Doors and Windows
Caulking around doors and windows can become cracked or loose due to age and weather. To prevent drafts, inspect the caulking around window frames and doors. If you see any moisture damaged wood, remove the wood and install new framing. Then seal windows with the appropriate caulking. You should also remember to inspect and seal around exterior vent pipes.
3. Yearly Heating System Maintenance
It’s always a great idea to have your heating and cooling system inspected twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall before winter arrives. Have your mechanical systems evaluated by a professional heating and cooling company that specializes in the brand of equipment that is installed. The technician should also check the thermostats to ensure they are operating correctly.
You should have them inspect all ductwork and vents into the home to clear them of any dirt, dust, debris or obstructions. Fix broken or loose ducts to ensure the heating system runs efficiently.
4. Property Upkeep
Most of the property upkeep before winter will consist of clearing leaves and trash from the property to prevent windblown debris. You should never forget to drain outdoor water pipes to prevent the lines from freezing and cracking.
After dealing with the pipes, you can place furniture and other items into storage to prevent them from becoming damaged from the wind. You should also inspect outdoor stairs and railings for problems that need to be fixed before the winter weather arrives.
With constant year-round upkeep and maintenance offered by AZ Residential Management, it becomes a simple task of getting your rental property ready for the winter. Create a safe and comfortable home for your tenants.