1. Change the air filters in the home: If you have a central air conditioning system, change the air filter regularly. If you have a window air conditioning unit, remove from the window or place a waterproof cover over it to prevent damage during the winter. Change the filters in stove vents, clothes dryers and room fans if applicable.
2. Examine your gutters and downspouts for debris: Clear any leaves and dirt from gutters and examine downspouts for damage or loose pieces. If the gutters on your home are too high to get to safely, please submit a maintenance request with SOPM, so that we can have a company do the work on your behalf.
3. Check your faucets for leaks: Before the temperatures start to drop, be sure to look at your faucets for any leaks. If you find any problems, it would be better to get them fixed now versus dealing with a burst pipe in the middle of winter.
4. Remove leaves from the grass and flower beds: It is very important to remove leaves from the grass and flower beds as they begin to fall, before the ice and snow come. If you don’t pick up the leaves, there is a good chance they’ll kill the grass and landscaping which is expensive to repair.
5. Disconnect water hoses from exterior faucets: If you leave the hoses connected to your water faucets, you run the risk of the freezing which can break the supply line. The simple fix is to simply disconnect the hoses. We recommend that you store the hoses in your garage to help them last longer!
6. Prepare your fireplace: If you have a working, wood burning fireplace, make sure the damper is open to allow air to freely move through the chimney. Check the damper handle and springs to ensure the flue is operating correctly.
7. Have the furnace serviced: A furnace servicing can save on utility bills.
8. Clean and store seasonal outdoor furniture: Store cushions in a dry area to prevent cracking, and fading over the fall and winter months. Once spring arrives, you will be pleased that you stored them and they’re ready for use!
9. Examine the grounds of your property: Check walkways for cracks and loose paving material. Report any major problems with your walkway and entryway areas before slippery weather can cause someone to have an accident.
10. Check windows and doors for drafts: The air in your home is lost through leaky windows and doors. Go through your home and make sure the seal and caulking around the window frame is in good condition. Think of adding heavier drapery around windows that are extra drafty, to help block air loss. This will make a difference in your heating and air conditioning bills!
At SOPM we ensure that all of the above items are completed while managing your property. Take the hassle out of management and contact SOPM today for a free consultation to receive Professional Property Management.