December 2002 Owners Update

Landlord Tips on Winterizing Your Rental Properties

Seal Leaks around Doors and Window
Add or replace worn weather-stripping around doors and windows. Caulk gaps where necessary. Replace worn door stops at the bottom of doors. If you have them, install storm doors and windows. Don't forget to winterize basement windows. Older windows may eventually need to be replaced with more efficient
versions.

Check for Other Leaks
Use caulking and weather-stripping around entry points for pipes and ducts
that travel through an exterior wall. Install insulating kits behind electrical plugs that are on a wall with an exterior side.

Is Insulation Adequate?
Proper attic insulation keeps your rental warmer in the winter and cooler
in the summer. Ask the staff at your local home improvement center how much
insulation is recommended in your area, then check your attic insulation to
make sure it's adequate. Some homes benefit from additional wall insulation. Home improvement center staff will explain types of insulation that can be added to already-constructed walls.

Heating System Duties
A routine-check by a heating professional is always good when winter's
coming. Vacuum dust from vents or other types of heating elements around the house. If it has one, provide filters and instruct tenant on replacing the
heater's filter each month. Consider installing a setback thermostat. It regulates the temperature, allowing the home to be cooler when the tenants are away or asleep, then bringing the heat back up during other times.

Fireplace
Have the chimney inspected and cleaned. Advise your tenant to close the fireplace damper when not in use.

Check the Roof & Gutters
Replace loose shingles. Make sure the flashing around the chimney or vent pipes is watertight.

Check the bricks and mortar, too.
Install a screen at the top of the chimney to keep leaves and other items out. Clean drain gutters and point downspouts away from the house. Trim tree limbs that are hanging over or touching the roof. Plumbing Take care of known issues with pipes that freeze. Heat tape can be used to keep them warm during extremely cold weather. Instruct tenants how to turn off water at its source so that leaks stop immediately. Drain water from outdoor faucets and make sure tenant water hoses are disconnected.

Winterizing Outdoors
Give the deck an additional coat of sealer. Check the home's foundation and siding for cracks or gaps. Repair as necessary. Drain garden hoses, roll them up, and store them inside.

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