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Owning rental property in Portland means more than just collecting rent—it requires year-round attention to maintenance. With the city’s distinct seasons, consistent rain, and foliage-heavy neighborhoods, knowing when to tackle which tasks can prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs.
This monthly maintenance calendar is designed for Portland landlords who want to stay ahead of issues, keep tenants satisfied, and protect their investment.
January: Post-Holidays & Pre-Storm Prep
The New Year is the perfect time to reset your property’s maintenance plan.
- Inspect for roof leaks after winter storms
- Check and clear all gutters and downspouts
- Ensure outdoor lighting is working (Portland days are short)
- Review pipes for potential freeze exposure
💡 RentalRiff’s network of Portland-based maintenance pros can handle mid-winter checks and emergency calls so you don’t have to scramble.
February: Moisture Control
Portland’s rain doesn’t let up in February, which makes it a great month to address moisture and mildew issues.
- Look for signs of mold in basements, bathrooms, and windowsills
- Ventilate crawlspaces and check for water intrusion
- Inspect exterior paint for bubbling or peeling
Take this time to do an indoor walkthrough if tenants are open to it—spotting moisture problems early is key in this climate.
March: Early Spring Cleaning
As the city begins to bloom, your rentals should follow suit.
- Schedule gutter cleaning again to clear winter debris
- Power wash walkways, patios, and siding
- Touch up landscaping: prune dead branches and prep planting beds
A fresh exterior boosts curb appeal and tenant morale as spring approaches.
April: Pest Prevention & Yard Prep
This is when bugs come out to play—and tenants start using outdoor areas.
- Apply mulch to keep weeds down and conserve moisture
- Inspect screens and caulking to block pest entry
- Check deck safety and stair railings for stability
May: AC & Outdoor System Checks
Before summer hits, it’s time to focus on tenant comfort.
- Service HVAC systems and replace filters
- Test sprinklers or irrigation systems
- Inspect fencing for rot or winter damage
By doing these in May, you beat the summer rush for contractors.
June: Final School-Year Fixes
Many leases turn over in summer, so June is a good buffer month.
- Do light landscaping to prepare for showings
- Check for wear and tear in units where leases end in July/August
- Order repairs for visible siding, trim, or walkways
Small upgrades now can translate into higher tenant retention or faster turnover.
July: Mid-Year Inspections & Tenant Turnover
Peak turnover season means prepping for new tenants.
- Conduct move-out walkthroughs and document damage
- Re-key locks and inspect appliances and smoke detectors
- Deep clean common areas and exteriors
If you have long-term tenants, check in with a quick maintenance survey to stay ahead of issues.
August: Sun & Paint Protection
Portland summers may be mild, but sun damage still builds up.
- Repaint or seal sun-exposed siding or fencing
- Clean and inspect window screens
- Check sealants around windows and doors
September: Fall Prep
Time to prep your rental for the incoming rainy season.
- Clear gutters and downspouts again
- Check attic ventilation and roof for leaks
- Trim branches overhanging the roof
This month is key for reducing potential water-related issues.
October: Safety & Heating
As days shorten and temperatures drop, safety and comfort are the priority.
- Test carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms
- Replace furnace filters and test heating systems
- Check pathway lighting for safety
Proactive heating maintenance keeps tenants warm and reduces emergency calls.
November: Weatherproofing
Just before winter sets in, seal up those drafts.
- Weatherstrip doors and windows
- Check and insulate exposed pipes
- Inspect basements or crawlspaces for excess moisture
December: Quick Fixes & Tenant Goodwill
Before year-end holidays, do a final maintenance push.
- Check for leaks, squeaky doors, or burnt-out lights
- Offer tenants a seasonal maintenance tip sheet
- Take care of any minor repair requests that could build resentment
RentalRiff works with Portland landlords year-round to stay on top of these recurring maintenance tasks—without letting anything fall through the cracks.
The Year-Round Payoff
Having a structured calendar like this makes property management feel less overwhelming and more proactive. Monthly attention prevents costly surprises and keeps tenants feeling like their home is well cared for.
When local expertise is needed to keep things moving smoothly, a trusted partner like RentalRiff can make a big difference in keeping both property and tenant satisfaction high.