Extreme weather can happen any time of year, but the dropping temperatures and winter storms that the Northern Virginia area sees can make managing a rental property extra challenging.
Bitter cold temperatures can make it harder for your rental property’s heating system to work. Snow and ice create hazardous outdoor conditions and impact your property’s exterior components. Dense snow can also put significant weight on the roofing system.
Fortunately, you can be more prepared for cold weather by working with your tenants to avoid property damage.
Test Heating Systems
Have your tenants test their heat to ensure it works, or stop by to test the heat yourself. You want to ensure the system responds when you change the thermostat and doesn’t cycle on and off too frequently. You should also listen for any unusual sounds that could indicate a system malfunction.
It’s smart to have a backup plan in the event that the heating fails. Of course, having your system serviced can minimize the risk of a system failure. However, having portable heaters or somewhere tenants can go until you can get the heating fixed can reduce stress for everyone in such a situation.
Have Professionals Ready to Help
You never want to be stuck with a problem you can’t fix in the middle of winter, such as a burst pipe, broken heat pump, or shattered window. Having professionals in the area that are ready and willing to help is essential when running a rental property.
One way to do this is to already have a service agreement with local companies. For example, having your heating system served by a local HVAC contractor usually means you have priority over other customers should your system break.
Having local professionals on hand can ensure the problem is fixed in a timely manner, resulting in less stress for you and happier tenants.
Remind Tenants of Their Responsibilities
Although the lease agreement should detail who is responsible for maintenance tasks such as snow removal and changing air filters, extreme weather events are a good time to check in with your renters and remind them of their responsibilities.
For example, keeping the thermostat set at a reasonable temperature (68 degrees when home and 65 when away) can ensure their heating bills are as low as possible and reduce the burden on the heating system. Remind tenants to change air filters as necessary to support proper heat function and airflow.
Remind renters who’s responsible for snow and ice removal to keep everyone safe. If tenants plan on being out of town during a storm, ask them to keep their faucets dripping to avoid frozen pipes.
Check Your Roof
Have a professional roofing contractor inspect your income property’s roof to ensure it’s ready for severe weather. Often, roofing systems have problems that can’t be seen from the ground, and existing damage puts your roof more at risk during snow or ice storms.
Don’t wait until there’s a problem with your roof to call a professional. Protect your roofing system, your property, and your tenants by having your roof inspected and repaired now to prevent an emergency during inclement weather.
Are You Prepared for Extreme Weather?
Working with your tenants and doing your due diligence as a landlord in Northern Virginia can help prevent emergencies at your income property. Don’t have time to manage your rental? Contact Circle Property Management today at (703) 349-0144 to learn more about how we can help you manage your investment.
About The Author
Patrick H. Page - Principal Broker | Licensed in Virginia and the District of Columbia
