The Autumn Equinox is here in the northern hemisphere, and the cool mornings are being embraced! The days will become shorter as winter slowly starts to creep in. Be sure to prepare your rental property before the first frost hits. You may not think about certain things on the property as a renter, but communication is critical. Work together with the property manager or owner so both sides can create a winter-ready home. Here are some essential steps for winterizing properties this fall.
Begin by checking the heating system. If you live somewhere with a propane tank, ensure the tank is filled. Remember, the smoke alarm might go off when you first turn on the heater since it is dusty. But it will be a good test for smoke detectors.Typically, if you reside in a larger multifamily building, the property managers will have professionals come out and inspect smoke detectors.
Check windows and doors for drafts and seal foundation cracks to prevent heat loss. I lived in Dallas during the 2021 winter storm that basically shut the entire state of Texas down. I literally had ice inside the apartment windows. I felt like Jack from The Shining with a frozen nose! I do not recommend having that experience, so check windows for moisture signs and ensure they are adequately caulked. Regulate your home’s humidity, and if needed, run a dehumidifier to keep inside air drier and less prone to condensation. Repair worn or missing weatherstripping on the window’s sash.
Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams. Ice dams and icicles form when the snow melts, runs down the roof, and refreezes near the edge. Ice dams lead to leaks in the top as the water drips through the walls and ceilings. Check for rust spots, peeling paints or stains around windows or doors.
Check insulation levels in the attic and walls. In the average home, about one-third of heat loss is through the ceiling into the attic. It mostly comes from air leaks caused by unblocked walls, gaps in drywall and cracks around light fixtures, plumbing pipes and other ceiling penetrations. Plug leaks using foam, caulk and other methods. Call the professionals in when installing more insulation.
Prevent frozen pipes. Another experience living in Texas was once the frozen pipes defrosted, boom, there they went bursting. Busted sprinkler systems ruined several units in my building. Be sure to shut off exterior water sources and drain outdoor hoses. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces. Let faucets drip during freezing nights to keep water flowing. Winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems. Install pipe insulation or heat tape for added protection to exposed pipes. Add pool covers to pools, but put some air pillows to keep the cover from getting stuck to the water if it freezes.
Prepare an emergency kit for power outages and winter storms. Emergency kits should include some candles, flashlights, batteries, a radio and a first aid kit. You can DIY a heater with a terracotta pot and a candle inside your home. Simply flip the pot upside down and cover the candle. It will warm your room until the power comes back on.
Even if you reside in the South, skim over these items because you never know how Mother Nature will be. So, enjoy your PSL with your property manager or owner discussing these steps and maybe even mention updating your renter’s insurance policy and its benefits to add more synergy to the happiest time of the year!
