As a property manager or landlord in Windsor, Ontario, preparing your apartment or condominium for the winter is a top priority. Our local winters are known for freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, which can take a toll on both your building and your tenants’ comfort.
Taking proactive steps now will prevent costly emergency repairs and ensure your residents stay safe and warm. Here is your essential checklist for winterizing your rental property.
1. Inspect and Service the Heating System
A reliable furnace is the most critical asset during a Canadian winter.
- Professional Tune-up: Hire a licensed HVAC technician to inspect your heating system. This improves efficiency and ensures there are no dangerous gas or carbon monoxide leaks.
- Safety First: Install carbon monoxide detectors in every unit and common area. Test them to ensure they provide timely warnings in the event of a malfunction.
2. Improve Building Insulation
Proper insulation keeps heat in and cold air out, which helps reduce your tenants’ energy bills and prevents the furnace from overworking.
- Seal the Gaps: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal any leaks.
- Key Areas: Ensure the attic, basement, and exterior walls are sufficiently insulated to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
3. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Blocked gutters are a leading cause of winter water damage. When debris traps water, it freezes into “ice dams,” which can buckle the roof and cause leaks in the drywall.
- The Fix: Before the first frost, clear all leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure melting snow can flow freely away from the foundation.
4. Conduct a Roof Inspection
A roof that is already compromised can fail under the weight of heavy snow.
- Check for Damage: Inspect the roof for missing shingles or soft spots and repair them immediately.
- Prune Trees: Trim any branches hanging over the building. Heavy snow and ice can cause these branches to snap, potentially damaging the roof or siding.
5. Winterize Outdoor Areas
Prevent slips and falls by preparing the exterior of the property.
- Clear Paths: Remove leaves and debris from walkways to prevent them from becoming trapped under ice.
- Ice Management: Stock up on salt or sand for driveways and sidewalks.
- Lighting: With shorter days, ensure all exterior and motion-sensor lights are working to provide visibility at night.
6. Prevent Frozen Pipes
Burst pipes are one of the most expensive winter repairs a landlord can face.
- Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas (like crawl spaces) with foam sleeves.
- Outdoor Fixtures: Disconnect all garden hoses and shut off the water supply to exterior faucets.
- Tenant Tip: During extreme cold snaps, advise tenants to keep a very slow drip in the faucets to keep water moving and prevent freezing.
7. Provide Winter Essentials
Small gestures go a long way in tenant retention. Consider providing extra floor mats for entryways to catch salt and slush, or ensuring easy access to snow shovels and ice scrapers for their vehicles.
8. Maintain Open Communication
Your tenants are your “boots on the ground.” Keep them informed and prepared:
- Remind them to keep the heat at a minimum level, even if they go away for the holidays.
- Provide a clear emergency contact list for HVAC or plumbing issues.
Conclusion
By following these winterization steps, you can protect your investment and provide a cozy environment for your residents. A little maintenance today prevents a major headache during a Windsor snowstorm.
