We are in the middle of the fall and the weather’s getting cold quickly. This is a good time for landlords to think about winterizing and planning ahead to get your rental property ready for the winter. Whether your property is currently rented or vacant, these are some items you should take into consideration that can save you money, stress, and potential crises during the winter.
1 – Change the furnace filter
A heating system working at full capacity is key during the winter, this is why changing the furnace filter is so important. This will ensure proper air circulation, good air quality in your property, and will ensure your tenants are warm and comfortable.
2 – Ensure the hot water tank is in operable condition
No one likes to take cold showers during the Canadian winter. Give the hot water tank a maintenance service if needed to ensure you won’t receive after-hours calls from your tenants due to ice cold water coming out of their shower.
3 – Have vents and ducts cleaned
We recommend cleaning the vents and ducts of your property at least once every three years, using professional cleaning services. These companies offer their services at a nominal cost, and they even include vacuuming the furnace area in their service fee.
4 – Prepare doors and windows
Ensure all windows and doors are weathertight. Where required, weatherproof, or insulate to prevent entry of cold air.
5 – Check and change all batteries in smoke and CO detectors
This will ensure your tenants are breathing clean air, and will give you the peace of mind that your tenants are safe and you are protected against potential liability due to an incident related to fire or air quality.
6 – Prepare the yard
Ensure that all fence boards have been tightened, repaired, or boarded off properly, shut off all exterior hose bibs to prevent pipe freeze ups, order ice melt for walkways, and bring out the snow shovel and winter tools. Make sure there’s a place to keep them close at hand and easy to use, but out of the way of traffic areas. Finish by checking if all exterior lights are operational, and change them if necessary.
We also recommend taking care of the landscaping too. Wrap up and put exterior hose pipes and garden implements indoors when possible, clean out annual bedding plants and clear the planters for the winter.
7 – Check the last details
Oil garage door hinges and tracks, tighten loose hinge bolts, and ensure all gate latches and locks are operable.
8 – Insurance is essential. Ensure you carry adequate insurance
Last, but certainly not least, it’s key that you make sure your insurance policy is up to date and covers your property’s needs. Remember that incidents can always happen, regardless of how many precautions we take. Real estate insurance will give you the peace of mind that in the event of an incident your income will continue.
With prudent and proactive planning, the winter may be less stressful and you will have an enjoyable season.
Happy winter!
