Recently, I contacted Andrea Vernerova of Purpose Property Management to learn how to be proactive with property maintenance so that you can enjoy a worry-free holiday season with fewer emergencies. As winter approaches, it’s important to ensure your property is in great shape to keep everyone safe and comfortable. At Purpose Property Management, they’ve put together five must-do maintenance tasks that will keep your property running smoothly through the winter months.
1. Inspect HVAC Systems and Change Filters
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will work overtime during the colder months. To keep it running efficiently:
Schedule a professional inspection to identify and resolve any potential issues.
Replace or clean air filters to improve airflow and maintain air quality.
💡 Pro Tip: Regular filter changes can reduce energy costs and extend the life of your HVAC system.
2. Clean Out Gutters
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage or ice dams, which are costly to repair. Before the winter chill sets in:
Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts.
Ensure water is flowing freely away from the property’s foundation.
💡 Pro Tip: Consider installing gutter guards to minimize buildup and make maintenance easier year-round.
3. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With more time spent indoors and an increase in heating and holiday cooking, functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are crucial.
Replace batteries in all detectors, even if they appear to be working.
Test each device to ensure it’s functioning properly.
💡 Pro Tip: If your detectors are more than 10 years old, consider replacing them with newer models for better reliability.
4. Inspect Plumbing Periodically
Cold weather can wreak havoc on plumbing systems, leading to frozen pipes or leaks. Prevent issues by:
Checking for visible leaks or drips around sinks, toilets, and water heaters.
Insulating exposed pipes in colder areas to prevent freezing.
💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to leave a property unoccupied for an extended period, keep the thermostat above 55°F to prevent frozen pipes.
5. Deep Clean Key Areas
A thorough cleaning isn’t just about aesthetics—it helps maintain a safe and healthy environment. Focus on:
Clearing dust and debris from hard-to-reach places, like behind appliances.
Cleaning vents, fans, and other neglected areas to improve air circulation.
💡 Pro Tip: Encourage tenants to declutter their spaces for a fresh and peaceful holiday vibe.
By addressing these maintenance tasks now, you’ll enjoy a worry-free holiday season with fewer emergencies. If you rent your property, you will have happier tenants. If you’re a property owner looking for professional help managing these responsibilities, Purpose Property Management is available to assist!
Lastly, verify that the property is in your Trust to protect it from probate and contact the Law Office of Yael Rakib, P.C. if you’ve experienced changes in the last year that may impact your estate plan.