Fall is upon us, and with it comes changing leaves, a new school year for the kids and the first chilly temperatures of the season. For property managers, fall means a last chance to get caught up on maintenance while the weather is still nice. It is the perfect time to tackle projects that have sat on the back burner all summer.
Routine maintenance on your rental properties can ensure protection from snow, wind and ice as the cooler months approach. Don't be put off by the initial shock of how much it seems like you need to do - most autumnal maintenance can be done affordably and quickly. Anyway, routine maintenance each season can save you money and time in long run!
Cal Bay Property Management's Scott Safadi recommends checking into exterior maintenance needs first. Prioritizing caulking, roof inspections and the cleaning of gutters will ensure your property is ready for whatever blows your way. Be sure to animal proof your rentals, too. When the temperatures turn cold, critters are likely to seek shelter in any corner they can. Discourage nesting by performing an exterior inspection and looking for any openings an animal might crawl through. Caulk small holes and install steel mesh over large holes.
Indoors, inspect windows and doors for air leaks. Drafty homes can be a drain on the heating system, so apply weather stripping or caulk where needed. Check the attic for similar air leaks. Animals that may have entered the crawl space can destroy insulation.
If you have a fireplace installed in a rental, have a chimney sweep remove debris that may have built up over the warmer months. Clogged chimneys increase the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Fall is also a great time to double check the carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Put in fresh batteries and make sure they are in good working order.
Don't forget to walk the property to make a list of any lawn or tree maintenance needs. Any branches or vegetation that makes contact with a home or apartment can cause potential damage. Arrange for seasonal trimmings to best protect your investment.
However you decide to maintain your property this fall, do so before the weather turns cold. You save yourself time and energy (and in some cases, money) by being proactive!
- Scott Safadi, Cal Bay Property Management
