Even though this is Texas, there’s still a change of seasons – eventually anyway. As a rental property owner and/or manager, you have likely got your checklist of essential fall maintenance to-dos in hand. Here are some additional tips to add to your own checklist that may come in handy.
The Roof
The hot, Texas sun can break down the granular surface of shingles. When that happens, water can seep into the house or building. Climb up on the roof and check the condition of the shingles. If they look worn or faded, it’s time to replace them.
Lawn Care
Landscaping is important year-round, but fall is the time to do certain tasks. If you’re trying to keep a nice green lawn around your property, now is the time to trim back tree limbs away from the house or rental unit. Also check that trees are in good health and know how to prune failing or dead limbs. Rake leaves for a better-looking landscape.
And don’t forget to feed and aerate your soil. A well-maintained landscape will attract better tenants.
Interior Maintenance
Check the HVAC system before cold weather strikes. Schedule a system check-up in late September or early October to ensure the unit is working properly. Late summer is the ideal time to catch small heating problems before they cause large ― and expensive ― problems during a cold snap.
Good insulation in the attic and walls of your property prevents cold air from seeping into the interior. When cold drafts get inside, they force the furnace to work overtime to heat the house. That leads to higher energy bills. Investing in insulation can help you and your tenants save on energy costs. Check window seals and door seals and replace any old or worn ones with energy efficient new seals.
Exterior Maintenance
Take a walk around the property and see If you spot anything that needs repairs or touch-ups. Clean gutters and downspouts because once the leaves have fallen the gutters can easily be clogged. Clogged gutters during rainstorms can cause water to accumulate and damage the roof and even inside walls.
Remember, if you are too busy to handle the upkeep of your rental property, there are experts who can skillfully do it for you. Cousin James Management has many years of experience doing that and more. Give us a call and let’s see what we can do for you.