❄️Winter Preparedness for Property Investors
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As the cooler temperatures loom near in Western New York and the days grow shorter, property investors should be proactively preparing their portfolios for the upcoming winter season. Failing to adequately prepare can lead to significant financial setbacks, including costly repairs, tenant dissatisfaction, and decreased property value. This blog post outlines key strategies and considerations to help property investors ensure their properties are winter-ready.
Essential Exterior Preparations
The exterior of your property is the first line of defense against winter's harsh elements. Thorough preparation here can prevent major issues down the line.
Gutter and Downspout Maintenance
Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause significant damage to roofs, gutters, and even the interior of a property.
Clean thoroughly: Remove all leaves, debris, and sediment from gutters and downspouts.
Check for damage: Inspect gutters for any cracks, holes, or loose fasteners. Repair or replace as needed.
Ensure proper drainage: Confirm that downspouts direct water at least away from the foundation. Consider adding downspout extensions if necessary.
Roof Inspection and Repair
A compromised roof can lead to leaks, mold, and structural damage.
Inspect for damage: Look for missing, loose, or damaged shingles, especially after strong winds.
Check flashing: Ensure all flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is secure and sealed.
Trim overhanging branches: Branches too close to the roof can cause damage during heavy snow or ice.
Landscaping and Drainage
Proper landscaping and drainage around the property can prevent water accumulation and foundation issues.
Grade the landscape: Ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling.
Drainage systems: Check and clear any existing drainage systems.
Protect outdoor plants: Cover sensitive plants and disconnect hoses from outdoor spigots to prevent pipes from freezing.
Interior Winterization Checklist
While the exterior protects from the elements, the interior needs attention to ensure comfort and prevent costly internal damage.
Plumbing Protection
Frozen pipes are a common and expensive winter problem.
Insulate exposed pipes: Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics should be insulated.
Drain outdoor faucets: Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain them completely.
Set thermostat appropriately: Advise tenants to keep the thermostat set to at least (or if the property is vacant) to prevent pipes from freezing.
Heating System Maintenance
A well-functioning heating system is crucial for tenant comfort and energy efficiency.
Schedule professional inspection: Have a qualified HVAC technician inspect and service the heating system before the cold weather sets in.
Change air filters: Advise tenants to change furnace filters regularly (every month or as needed).
Check carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure all carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly and have fresh batteries.
Window and Door Sealing
Drafty windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss and higher energy bills.
Caulking and weatherstripping: Inspect and seal any gaps or cracks around windows and doors.
Window insulation kits: Consider using window insulation kits for older, less efficient windows.
Snow Removal Strategy
Establish a clear plan for snow and ice removal.
Communicate with tenants: Clearly outline who is responsible for snow removal (tenant or landlord/contractor).
Hire a service: For multi-unit properties or properties where tenants are not responsible, arrange for a reliable snow removal service well in advance. Standard PM can help assist and provide quotes for snow removal and salting service.
Provide supplies: If tenants are responsible, ensure they have access to shovels, salt, or pet-friendly ice melt.
Tenant Communication
Proactive communication with tenants can prevent many issues.
Winter tips memo: Send out a memo with winter preparedness tips, including thermostat settings, reporting issues, and emergency procedures.
Emergency protocol: Clearly outline what tenants should do in case of a burst pipe, heating failure, or other winter emergencies. Tenants under SPM should contact us at 716-934-6000 for all emergencies.
Scheduled inspections: Inform tenants of any planned winterization inspections.
Preparing your properties for winter is not just about avoiding costly repairs; it's also about protecting your investment and ensuring the safety and comfort of your tenants. By implementing these proactive measures, property investors can navigate the cold months with confidence, minimizing risks and maximizing returns.
