When the temperature drops, rental properties face a new set of challenges—from frozen pipes to heat system failures to tenant comfort complaints. Many landlords prepare for winter by checking off a few basics like turning off outdoor water or adjusting the thermostat—but true winterization goes far beyond that.
To protect your investment and keep tenants happy, you need to approach cold-weather prep comprehensively. Here’s a breakdown of the tasks that often get overlooked during winterization—and why they matter more than you think.
Insulate and Protect Pipes (Beyond the Obvious)
Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive cold-weather disasters a property can face. While most landlords remember to insulate outdoor faucets or crawlspace pipes, these areas often get ignored:
- Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks—especially those on exterior walls
- Laundry room hookups in poorly insulated garages
- Vacant units where heat may be turned down too low
Use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or cabinet-opening strategies to keep warm air circulating. Also, instruct tenants on how to drip faucets during cold snaps to prevent pressure buildup.
Seal Drafts in Forgotten Places
Windows and doors get a lot of attention—but don’t stop there. Drafts can creep in from unexpected spots, driving up energy bills and making tenants uncomfortable.
Double-check:
- Attic entry points and pull-down stairs
- Dryer vents and utility penetrations
- Basement or crawlspace vents left open during summer
Use caulk, foam spray, or weather stripping to close any gaps that let cold air seep in or warm air escape.
Schedule Furnace Tune-Ups Early
Waiting until winter hits to check your heating system is risky—not just for comfort, but for safety. A dirty filter or failing part can cause breakdowns, carbon monoxide leaks, or skyrocketing utility bills.
Before the cold sets in:
- Replace filters (and leave spares for tenants if appropriate)
- Schedule a licensed HVAC inspection
- Test thermostats for accuracy
- Check for carbon monoxide leaks, especially if your property uses gas heat
Heating issues are among the most common tenant complaints during winter—stay ahead of them.
Prep for Ice and Snow Management
In colder regions, ice and snow can cause slips, blocked access, and damage to landscaping or exterior surfaces. Even if you’ve contracted a snow removal service, consider:
- Marking driveways and walkways with stakes before snowfall
- Providing salt or sand bins at key entry points
- Reminding tenants not to use hot water to de-ice steps, which can cause cracks
Check your local ordinances, too—many cities require landlords to clear sidewalks within a specific timeframe after snow.
Secure Outdoor Features and Fixtures
Cold weather and wind can damage:
- Outdoor furniture
- Hose bibs
- Mailboxes
- Loose fence panels
Make sure to:
- Remove or store lightweight outdoor items
- Shut off and drain hose lines
- Cover AC units if needed
- Secure fencing, railings, and signage
RentalRiff’s local property specialists help landlords get eyes on the details—so nothing gets missed when the weather turns.
Prep Vacant Units (or Unused Spaces)
Winter can be especially brutal on unoccupied spaces. If you have a unit that’s vacant or a garage that rarely gets used, make sure:
- Heat is left on at a minimum of 55°F
- Windows are locked and sealed
- Water lines are drained or insulated
You should also stop by regularly or have a property manager check in to catch issues before they escalate.
Inspect the Roof and Attic
A damaged or poorly insulated roof can lead to leaks, ice dams, or severe energy loss during winter.
Make sure to:
- Remove debris and inspect flashing around chimneys and vents
- Check for sagging gutters or ice dam risks
- Look for signs of critter activity in the attic (mice love warm insulation!)
- Verify insulation is evenly distributed
Proper insulation can drastically improve heating efficiency and tenant comfort.
Light It Up
Winter means shorter days and longer nights—tenants need well-lit, safe access to entrances, driveways, and common areas.
Inspect:
- Exterior lights and motion sensors
- Bulbs at stairways, paths, and garages
- Lighting timers or dusk-to-dawn fixtures
Better lighting deters theft, prevents accidents, and improves tenant satisfaction.
Provide a Winter Welcome Checklist for Tenants
A simple seasonal reminder can go a long way toward avoiding mid-winter maintenance calls. Consider sharing a list that includes:
- How to report emergencies quickly
- What temperature to keep the unit at, even if leaving town
- Where to find the water shutoff in case of a leak
- Tips for reducing drafts and conserving heat
Communication builds trust—and helps tenants help you keep the property protected.
At RentalRiff, we help property owners take a complete approach to seasonal maintenance—through local pros who know what to check and when to check it.
The Winter Checklist You Didn’t Know You Needed
Winter prep isn’t just about turning on the heat. It’s about thinking ahead—about insulation, tenant safety, and unseen risks that could turn into costly repairs.
Landlords who work with local property managers tend to stay ahead of these challenges because they benefit from someone on-site who knows what the weather does, how tenants behave, and where vulnerabilities tend to be.
Before the cold sets in, make sure your checklist goes beyond the basics.
And if you want peace of mind all season long, work with a partner like RentalRiff—so nothing slips through the cracks when the temperatures drop.