It's shocking that Salt Lake City gets up to 50 inches of snow each year while the nearby mountains can get up to 500.
As a responsible landlord, it's essential to ensure that your rental property is prepared for the winter months. You'll have to keep up with a few winter property maintenance tasks.
What can you do to get your rental property ready for winter? Read on for a winter property maintenance guide.
Clean Gutters
One of the first tasks to tackle in winter property management is cleaning the gutters. As leaves fall during autumn, they often accumulate in gutters, which causes blockages. When winter arrives, these clogged gutters can lead to ice dams and water damage.
Ensure that gutters are clear of debris to allow proper drainage. This simple step can keep your property's foundation and walls safe from water damage.
Prune Trees
Take the time to prune trees before winter sets in. Remove any dead or weak branches that could pose a risk of falling under the weight of snow or ice. Trimming trees not only enhances the safety of your property but also contributes to the aesthetic appeal.
A maintained landscape can make real estate investing as lucrative as possible.
Winterize Roof
Your investment property's roof is the greatest line of defense against the elements. To protect it from the winter weather, consider winterizing your roof. Inspect for any missing or damaged shingles and replace them right away.
Property managers should look for signs of water damage in the attic. Ensure that vents and chimneys are clear of debris. Consider hiring a professional to inspect and address any issues so they can provide your property with a sturdy roof throughout the winter months.
Snow Removal
In Salt Lake City, heavy snowfall is a common occurrence during winter. Efficient snow removal is crucial to maintain accessibility and safety on your property. Invest in quality snow removal equipment, such as shovels and snow blowers, to clear walkways and driveways.
If your property has a parking lot, consider hiring a professional snow removal service to ensure that it remains safe and accessible for both tenants and visitors. Prompt snow removal not only prevents accidents but also demonstrates your commitment to tenant safety.
Roof Care
In addition to winterizing the roof, ongoing roof care is essential during the winter months. Regularly inspect the roof for signs of snow accumulation, especially after heavy snowfall. You should also be vigilant about ice dams, which can form at the edges of the roof and cause water backup.
Preventing or taking care of these issues will preserve the integrity of your property's roof throughout winter.
Landlords Need to Do These Winter Property Maintenance Tasks
Proactive winter property maintenance is key to ensuring the well-being of your rental property and the safety of your tenants. By addressing these winter tasks, you can keep your tenants cozy while protecting your investment. A maintained property will boost your Salt Lake City property's long-term value.
Having a property management company on your side can make winter maintenance a breeze. Contact Wolfnest to learn how our property management solutions will help you. We've been helping investors since 202.