Renting out your property to tenants can provide you with a great opportunity to make extra income. You need to make sure your property is safe for tenants and protect your investment. Winter is coming, and with it, the days are getting shorter. You can take steps now to ensure your property is ready for the coming season.

It is your responsibility as a landlord to maintain the property. This article will help you to deal with the most serious winter problems.

Roof Leaks Should Be Checked

Roofs can leak for quite some time before they become obvious. It's often a "stop all" situation by the time it becomes apparent. This means that immediate action must be taken to correct the problem and prevent more damage. Even if the leak is not visible, damage can still occur. Wet wood can turn to rot, and mouldy insulation can cause hazards. Check your roof for holes and missing shingles before the snow and rain descend. Also, look for gaps between the chimneys and the roof. Seal any damaged areas with watertight caulk. Check your crawlspace and attic for any signs of water damage.

For tricky repairs and steep pitches, hire a professional. You should now look for a professional roofer if you don't already have one. For referrals, ask other property owners and your local rental housing association.

Clear Out Gutters

Check the gutters, downspouts and roof vents while you are there. Leafs and other debris can quickly accumulate, especially in the autumn. Gutter and downspouts can direct heavy rainwater away from your foundation and roof, which can prevent flooding and leakage.

If your gutters don't rise too high, you can climb on a ladder to do the job yourself. Make sure you have gloves for gardening and a trowel to help you climb the ladder. Hire a professional gutter cleaner if your gutters are too high for safety and comfort.

Winterizing Hoses, Sprinkler Systems, And Other Methods Can Prevent Freezing Pipes

Your landscaping won't require water as much during winter because of the colder temperatures and wetter weather. Winterizing your irrigation system will prevent damage and protect pipes from cracks or leaks. To extend the life of your hoses, drain them and disconnect them from outside faucets. If possible, drain the faucet and wrap it with a Styrofoam or bungee cord-secured towel. To prevent sprinkler systems from cracking, drain them as well. This will save you money on costly repairs next spring.

To Prevent Freezing, Wrap The Pipes Inside

If your indoor plumbing is located in cold basements, crawlspaces, or attics, it could freeze and crack. A leak indoors can cause serious damage to your property as well as your tenants' possessions. You can prevent this from happening by covering the pipes with towels or foam covers.

Make Sure You Have The Right Window And Door Seals

A broken or drafty window is more obvious when temperatures drop, and the winds blow. If your windows and doors aren’t in good shape, so is your heating bill. To prevent heat from escaping, make sure to inspect each window and door seal. If the problem area is beyond repair, caulk it or hire a professional to replace the window.