BEHIND THE DOORS: PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
IN NOVEMBER
Harvest season and property management are connected by both the seasonal tasks of preparing for winter and the business cycle of the real estate industry. For rental properties, this includes physical maintenance like clearing leaves and inspecting roofs. In the business, " harvest season " refers to the end of the year, a time for property management teams to review performance, set goals, and prepare for the next year. Preparation is key!
Seasonal property maintenance during harvest season. Be sure to perform the steps below to extend the life of your property. Additionally for renters, refer to your lease agreement to determine maintenance responsibility and compliance.
Industry experts recommend that you clear leaves and debris, remove leaves from sidewalks, paths, rooftops, and gutters to prevent clogs and potential water damage. Additionally, this helps extend the life of the property’ s roof. Inspect these areas for potential issues. Check windows, doors, and roofs for cracks or potential leaks before winter arrives.
Focus on safety by prioritizing safety with increased activity from seasonal workers or contractors. Use digital tools to track check-ins and allow crews to report hazards like ruts, broken wires, and amenity repairs.
WINTERIZATION AND PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
Plumbing and drainage Now’ s the time to insulate exposed pipes. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawlspaces, or on exterior walls should be insulated to prevent freezing and bursting. According to plumbing experts and research, over one quarter of a million homes experience water damage due to burst pipes.
Here are tips to help minimize or possibly prevent any damage:
Winterize outdoor plumbing: Shut off the water supply to all exterior faucets, drain the lines completely, and disconnect and store all garden hoses. Use faucet covers for added protection. Clear gutters and downspouts: Remove all leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs. This is critical to avoid water backups, ice dams, and potential water damage to roofs, siding, and foundations during winter. Inspect drainage: Ensure all drainage systems, including downspouts and yard grading, direct water away from the property ' s foundation.
Heating and ventilation
Service HVAC systems: Schedule a professional inspection and service for all heating systems before they are heavily used. Ensure all components are working correctly and replace filters. Check chimneys and fireplaces: If properties have fireplaces, have the chimneys professionally cleaned and inspected to remove any soot and debris that could cause a fire. Seal drafts: Inspect windows, doors, and other entry points for cracks or gaps and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent heat loss. This will also help control energy costs for both tenants and owners. Reverse ceiling fans: For properties with ceiling fans, change the rotation to clockwise to push warm air downward and improve heating efficiency.
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