As a homeowner, you know that preventative maintenance is essential to keeping your property in good condition -- and it's even more important when you own or manage a rental property. You can't expect tenants to keep up with all home maintenance and repair tasks. There are many items that you should add to your rental management checklist before winter arrives, even if the rental is located in a warmer area.

Check The Heating And Insulation Systems

The heating system will run continuously during winter if you live in colder climates. You should schedule an HVAC or furnace cleaning and tuneup now. Change or clean the filter and inspect your crawlspace or attic.

Make sure your fireplace or wood stove is working properly if you have a rental property. If you are unable to recall the last time your chimney was swept, it is probably time for professionals -- don't allow a crackling fire to become a fire hazard.

Insulation of the crawlspace and ceilings will keep heat in the living area and prevent warm air from escaping. Cover any holes or openings under the eaves that could permit rodents to shelter in an attic or crawlspace. Weatherstripping or caulk can be used to seal gaps around doors and windows. This will increase energy efficiency, no matter how hot or cold the air is.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

You can avoid frozen pipes and the collateral damage they cause by installing extra insulation in your crawlspace, basement, or attic. Frozen pipes can cause damage, but it is possible to prevent them. Drain exterior faucets and hoses and turn them off. Your tenants should be taught what to do when temperatures drop. This includes leaving water on overnight, keeping cabinet doors open, and maintaining a constant temperature.

Keep Branches Away

Although your landscaping may be dormant, you still need to maintain it. You can prevent damage from windy or icy conditions by trimming shrubs and trees that brush up against windows and walls and checking for dead branches that might fall during a storm.

Winterproof Your Exterior

Check your roof regularly for ice dams. This can cause roof damage and water leakage. Check for damage to flashing or shingles, seal crawlspace vents and seal cracks that might allow small creatures to enter.

Concrete is a good choice. Make sure to check your driveway and walkways for cracks.

Clean Gutters

This is a difficult job. However, it can cause water damage, blockages, and more problems in the spring. Make sure to inspect the downspouts for cracked or split seams. To prevent water from seeping into crawlspaces or basements, splashbacks or extensions can be used.

Inspect Your Fence And Deck

Wood can deteriorate in any climate. You can check boards for signs of rot and insect damage. Secure any steps or railings that aren't secured. Consider using epoxy or non-slip paint to make your porch, deck and stairs slip-resistant in damp conditions. Replace or repair any missing or damaged fence pickets. Make sure that posts are secured -- windstorms can easily cause damage to fencing.

Test Safety Devices

End of daylight savings time is a reminder to check all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home and replace them, especially as more people will use their fireplaces as the temperature drops.

Prepare

Bad weather can cause blackouts or snowstorms. If your residents are taking care of snow removal on your property, move snow shovels and blowers to an accessible spot.

Make sure your tenants are prepared in case of power outages. Keep bottled water, nonperishable food, flashlights, and emergency numbers handy.