A property assessment is an important step in securing your rental for the winter. This assessment can help uncover maintenance issues before they become a problem. 

For rental houses and apartment buildings, start by walking around the exterior and over the grounds. Debris can collect on the yard and over winter can lead to dead spots in the lawn. Rake leaves, clear sticks and rocks from the grounds, and remove all garbage from the yard. 

Window wells can collect organic litter so make sure all wells are clean and clear of debris. Downspouts should be directed away from the foundation. When necessary use downspout extensions to guide drainage away from the building. Check that all downspout extensions in use are free of tears, breaks, or holes. Additionally, the foundation should be inspected for cracks or crevasses and if found, filled with a concrete sealant. 

Cold air and pests can enter the building if window and door seals are cracked. Apply caulk around windows and weatherstripping to doors. Test outdoor lighting and replace bulbs where necessary. Turn off the water supply for outdoor faucets, unhook garden hoses, and pack up any gardening supplies. Store hoses, sprinklers, and nozzles indoors to protect them against the cold weather. Finally, have a professional inspect the roof and clean the gutters. 

Once your outdoor assessment is complete, move indoors. Smoke and carbon dioxide detectors in common spaces should be inspected, and batteries should be replaced. Before the furnace is in use, have a technician perform a proper inspection and make sure the filter is changed. Just as you did outside, inspect the interior foundation walls for any cracks or dampness. 

Contact tenants to inspect rental spaces. Look for leaky taps, clean exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and change the batteries in all smoke and carbon dioxide detectors. Also, examine window and door seals for drafts. If the caulking appears hardened or cracked, replace it with fresh sealant.

A thorough fall assessment can prevent serious problems. If you need help managing your rental property, Re/max Rental Advisors offers broad property management services in Edmonton.