.jpg)
Denver winters are beautiful, but they can be brutal on homes—especially rental properties that may not get the same level of personal attention as owner-occupied homes. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can create costly maintenance issues if you're not prepared.
Whether you're a seasoned landlord or new to managing rentals in Colorado, taking the time to winter-proof your property can save you money, protect your investment, and keep your tenants comfortable and happy.
Here's how to do it right.
Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter disasters, and they can result in thousands of dollars in water damage.
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls
- Use pipe sleeves or heat tape for extra protection
- Remind tenants to keep cabinets open on extremely cold nights to let warm air circulate
If your property has older plumbing, this step is even more critical. Burst pipes are preventable with a little proactive effort.
Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation
Heat loss doesn’t just drive up utility bills—it also makes your rental feel uncomfortable.
- Check for air leaks around windows, doors, and attic access points
- Install weatherstripping or caulking where needed
- Add attic insulation or inspect existing insulation for coverage
Tenants may not notice the draft until they see a spike in their heating bill. By addressing it early, you can prevent complaints and increase energy efficiency.
Clean and Inspect the Furnace
HVAC systems work overtime in Denver winters. Ensuring your furnace is in good condition before the cold hits is crucial.
- Schedule a professional furnace inspection in the fall
- Replace air filters to ensure clean airflow
- Confirm that carbon monoxide detectors are working properly
A well-maintained furnace helps prevent emergency calls when temperatures drop below freezing. Plus, it extends the life of your system.
Prep the Exterior for Snow and Ice
Denver's freeze-thaw cycles and snow accumulation can do a number on exterior surfaces.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams
- Ensure roof shingles are secure and not lifting
- Stock de-icing supplies and snow shovels for tenant use
If your property includes walkways or stairs, make sure they’re in good repair to prevent slips and liability issues.
Check Windows and Storm Doors
Old or drafty windows are a major source of heat loss in winter.
- Upgrade to double-pane windows if possible
- Add plastic window insulation kits as a temporary solution
- Make sure storm doors close securely and seals are intact
You can even offer to help tenants install window film to reduce heat escape—a small gesture that goes a long way.
Protect Landscaping and Irrigation Systems
Denver’s cold snaps can cause damage to irrigation lines and plants.
- Blow out and shut off sprinkler systems for the season
- Wrap exterior hose bibs with insulated covers
- Trim overhanging branches that might break under snow load
Tenants may not think to winterize these areas, so it’s best for landlords to take initiative.
Communicate with Tenants About Winter Procedures
Your tenants play a major role in keeping the property safe and functional in the winter. Make sure they know what’s expected of them.
- Provide clear guidelines for snow removal responsibilities
- Remind them to report maintenance issues early, especially with heat or water
- Include tips for preventing frozen pipes and draft complaints
When tenants understand what they can do to help, they're more likely to take action—reducing your winter maintenance workload.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Preventive Maintenance Now
Winter weather creates high demand for contractors, and you don’t want to be left scrambling when an emergency hits.
- Line up snow removal services ahead of time
- Have a handyman or HVAC tech on call
- Keep a checklist of seasonal maintenance tasks specific to your property
Proactive planning gives you peace of mind and shows tenants that you take property care seriously.
RentalRiff partners with property owners to make seasonal maintenance seamless. Their local service pros can handle inspections, preventative fixes, and emergency support—so you're never stuck dealing with a frozen pipe or broken heater alone.
A Winter-Ready Property = Happy Tenants, Fewer Headaches
Denver winters are no joke. But with the right preparation, your rental property can handle the cold without costly damage or complaints.
From insulation upgrades to furnace checks and snow protocols, a winter-proof rental is a smart investment in both tenant satisfaction and long-term property value.
And if you'd rather not handle it all yourself? That’s where local partners like RentalRiff shine—helping landlords stay ahead of the season, one property at a time.