If last year’s Snowmageddon taught us anything, it is that Waco, TX isn’t immune to winter! As such, it is vital to take some steps to prepare your rental home for whatever the winter may bring. Though there are no guarantees, doing so could protect your home from some hefty damage in the future, giving you and your tenants some peace of mind this winter season.
Check your rental home’s roof and the gutters before it gets too cold.
Check that your roof is in good condition so that it can withstand any snow or ice. It is also crucial that you check that your gutters are secure and free from debris. This will help ensure water runoff lands where it should, rather than spilling into your rental home or pouring (and freezing) on your walkways if temperatures drop rapidly.
Take the time needed to seal cracks and wrap pipes.
Check areas around your doorways and windows for any crevices where cold air could seep through. You can then seal those areas off using caulk or weather stripping. This will help prevent cold air from entering your rental home. Exterior pipes, or interior pipes on exterior walls, should be covered with weather-resistant insulation as well.
Schedule your HVAC and fireplace maintenance.
One of the worst things that can happen to you and your tenants is having your HVAC unit go down in the peak of summer or winter – when parts are scarce and repair costs are high. One way to prevent any issues is through routine maintenance just before the summer and winter months. For a minimal cost, a technician will come out to change your filters, clean various components of your unit, and lubricate motor parts. The technician will even conduct a full inspection to ensure that everything is up and running as it should.
If you have a fireplace within your rental home, now is the time to have it swept and checked. The National Fire Protection Agency reports that fires resulting from fireplaces result in over $120 million in damages each year nationwide – which is why fireplace maintenance (and proper use) is crucial.
Check trees on and around your property.
Check any large branches hanging over your rental home before the winter so that you can have them trimmed back or removed entirely. If you don’t and there is another heavy snow or ice storm, that branch could cause extensive damage to your home or result in the injury or death of a loved one.
With over 30 years of property management experience, we make tending to your rental property’s maintenance needs simple as can be. No matter what the season or service call – you can rest assured that your Waco rental home is in great hands with us – increasing in value for years to come. To learn more about the comprehensive services we offer landlords across Waco and Central TX, feel free to contact us today via phone at 254-651-0576 or through our contact form online. We look forward to hearing from you!
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.
