The Chicago winter season will be here before we know it! If you are a property owner you may be thinking about how you can save on your rental building expenses this winter. Not to mention keep your residents happy. PRG Management is here to help with a list of to-do’s that might save you a headache on those brisk, snowy days.
Schedule inspections and winterizations.
Have the roof, exterior, HVAC, and plumbing inspected. An exterior inspection could save you big on cash and time. Loose shingles, TPO, and siding could make way for sneaky leaks from melting snow and ice. Making sure your HVAC and plumbing is up to par will ensure you’re properly providing for your residents and potentially save you from any unexpected safety issues or damage over the season. Winterize your sprinkler system and pool. Protect the systems from freezing and therefore, yourself from any added expenses when you’re ready to bring your exterior back to life in the spring.
Perform any needed maintenance and make repairs.
Consult your current maintenance requests for any items that could be worsened or made more difficult by inclement weather. Repair any loose siding, shingles, or TPO roofing before being further damaged by wind or water. Check on any underground plumbing before the ground freezes to avoid unnecessary expenses. Clean out the gutters to prevent leaks, rotting, and pest infestation from leaf and debris build up. Before it gets cold replace all furnace filters and do any needed furnace cleaning so residents and the property are ready for low temperatures. Consider insulating the pipes to save on utility costs and prevent a pipe burst.
Talk to your tenants.
Lastly, be sure to contact your tenants about doing their part in protecting their home. Remind them that furnaces should be set at no lower than 60 degrees to help keep pipes from bursting. On extreme days, have them leave sink cabinets open to give pipes more direct access to heat. Suggest they cover the interior of windows with an insulating film to further deter cold, keeping their heating bill down. Discuss any protocols for an extended absence so you can be certain the property is looked after. Make sure they know how to best reach emergency maintenance, should it be needed.
Get started early!
We never know when winter will really set in so get started on your Fall to-do list right now! Your residents will appreciate your proactiveness; your team will thank you for saving them time out in the cold; and you and your wallet will rest a little easier.