With Thanksgiving in the rear-view mirror, it’s time for landlords and property managers to get serious about winter maintenance for their Boston real estate. Cold, wet weather can take its toll on a property. It’s important to be proactive because repair costs can mount quickly!
Here are a few maintenance tips that will give landlords peace of mind in the months ahead.
Clear Gutters and Ensure Proper Drainage
By now, the trees in Boston have shed most of their leaves. Leaves, twigs and other debris can clog gutters. If water begins to pool on the roof as well, it can cause blockages that result in costly roof damage. If you want to clean your gutters properly, here’s some advice: make sure you have a sturdy ladder and dress appropriately; then, use a scraper or trowel to clean rain gutters of leaves and other debris. Then rinse your gutters to ensure everything flows to the downspouts freely. Make sure you are prepared to take on the task, or hire a professional to do it for you.
This is also a good time to check the drainage around your Boston rental property. Be sure that all drains have been graded properly around the perimeter of the property so water doesn’t collect around the foundation. Otherwise, you could be faced with erosion or leaks in the basement.
Prep the Yard for Harsh Winter Weather
Now is a good time to prepare the yard for harsh winter weather before it arrives. Rake leaves and trim hedges one last time. Take down weaker branches that may come down under the weight of snow. Fertilize the grass and remove plants or roots that may impact siding, outdoor patios, or brick walkways.
If you haven’t done so already, be sure to clean and store any outdoor furniture, grills, etc. Remind tenants to do the same if they have their personal belongings outside! Finally, be sure to disconnect hoses and drain sprinkler systems. Otherwise, the cold weather could cause the pipes to freeze and your hoses and other water lines could burst.
If you…