Avoiding Home Disasters During Winter Months

Changing seasons are a challenge for property managers or owners who have to always keep an eye on how the weather affects their property. Winter is one of the most challenging seasons to try and keep energy costs down and repairs to a minimum. In order to keep a property protected, inhabitants safe and property values intact, some preparations for the winter are needed. The cold winter months can drain any pocket so make sure you save energy by checking the doors and windows for gaps and make sure they are shut tight. You can either replace them before winter or invest in a simple and effective solution like weather-stripping. Single pane windows are easily broken and offer little insulating value. An investment in double pane energy efficient windows can quickly pay for themselves. Check all the pipes, hoses and spigots. If they freeze, then serious property damage is almost unavoidable. Pay attention to pipes that are outside and make sure you don`t only turn off the water, but also drain them. Check the water heater and identify any possible problems before they appear. Its highly recommended to have a professional check and clean the heating system to keep it in working order and running efficiently. If your property contains at least one chimney have it swept in order to prevent fires or smoke damage. Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work properly. An important part of property management during winter months is preparing the exterior of the house as well as the interior. Clean drains and gutters before the harsh months of winter arrive, as they can become heavy with snow or ice and lead to damage. Check of missing roof tiles or sagging that might indicate problem areas, or potential leaks. Lastly, some accidents or disasters are unavoidable, so make sure you have an emergency supply of food, waters, blankets, flashlights, and if possible a backup power source.

Changing seasons are a challenge for property managers or owners who have to always keep an eye on how the weather affects their property. Winter is one of the most challenging seasons to try and keep energy costs down and repairs to a minimum. In order to keep a property protected, inhabitants safe and property values intact, some preparations for the winter are needed.

The cold winter months can drain any pocket so make sure you save energy by checking the doors and windows for gaps and make sure they are shut tight. You can either replace them before winter or invest in a simple and effective solution like weather-stripping. Single pane windows are easily broken and offer little insulating value. An investment in double pane energy efficient windows can quickly pay for themselves.

Check all the pipes, hoses and spigots. If they freeze, then serious property damage is almost unavoidable. Pay attention to pipes that are outside and make sure you don`t only turn off the water, but also drain them. Check the water heater and identify any possible problems before they appear. Its highly recommended to have a professional check and clean the heating system to keep it in working order and running efficiently. If your property contains at least one chimney have it swept in order to prevent fires or smoke damage. Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work properly.

An important part of property management during winter months is preparing the exterior of the house as well as the interior. Clean drains and gutters before the harsh months of winter arrive, as they can become heavy with snow or ice and lead to damage. Check of missing roof tiles or sagging that might indicate problem areas, or potential leaks.

Lastly, some accidents or disasters are unavoidable, so make sure you have an emergency supply of food, waters, blankets, flashlights, and if possible a backup power source.

Real Property Management is a national real estate management company with over 200 offices in 30 states. Despite its national status Real Property Managment remains highly localized through its individual branches. We offer Phoenix our Property Management services with offices serving the Phoenix Metro area.

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