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Autumn is here, and it’s time to ready your property for the colder months ahead. There’s a lot of work involved in this transition, and it’s a good idea to start preparing during the fall season. This means lining up necessary vendors, ordering supplies, and scheduling inspections in advance.

For single-family properties, there’s a comprehensive list of tasks that need attention, both inside and outside the home. By taking the initiative to address fall maintenance now, you’ll not only save time and hassle for yourself and your tenants but also avoid costly emergency repairs.

To assist you in covering all aspects of fall maintenance, the experts at Scott Properties of the Midlands – your trusted property management company – have compiled a checklist that covers tasks for both the interior and exterior of your property. Think of it as your go-to guide for ensuring single-family properties are well-prepared for the fall season.

Exterior Cleanup and Maintenance – Property Management Company

Getting your property ready for winter involves several outdoor tasks that you should complete before the temperatures drop. Here’s a checklist of what needs to be done:

Yard Cleanup

Clear the yard of fallen leaves and remove branches and other natural debris. Allowing this organic material to accumulate and rot, especially when covered by snow, can hinder grass growth in the spring.

Avoid pruning your bushes for now. While many people prune in preparation for spring, trimming bushes that are slowing down for winter can hinder their future growth when warmer weather arrives.

Gutter Cleaning | Property Management Company

Ensure that your gutters are free from leaves, branches, and other debris. Clogged gutters can’t manage the runoff from melting snow, leading to puddles and roof freezing, which may result in ice dams and leaks.

Even if you don’t experience snowy winters, rainwater unable to flow through the gutters can find alternative routes off the roof, often through gaps that can lead to wall damage.

Roof Inspections

While working on the gutters, take a good look at the roof. Check for loose shingles or areas of decay. Examine the areas around vents to ensure they are sealed correctly. Gaps can become entry points for water and melted snow, potentially leaking into the home.

Winterizing Sprinkler Systems | Property Management Company

After your lawns have been watered for the season, ensure that the sprinkler systems are drained properly. Leaving water in these systems can lead to freezing and pipe damage.

Winterizing Pools and Decks

For properties with pools, prepare them for winter by cleaning, balancing, adding winterizing chemicals, lowering water levels, and covering them.

As for decks, store any outdoor furniture, inspect the structure for loose boards, railings, or screws, and address any weak spots. Later, thoroughly clean the deck and apply a water seal if necessary.

Interior Maintenance Guidelines by Your Property Management Company

Now that your exterior tasks are complete, it’s time to shift your attention to the indoors. Schedule an inspection of your property and ensure that these essential tasks are carried out:

Insulation Check

Examine the insulation in the attic to ensure there is enough of it. If you’re dealing with an older home, it might be a good idea to have its heat efficiency assessed and consider adding insulation within the walls, if needed.

Don’t forget to insulate pipes that run along external walls to prevent freezing and bursting during extremely cold weather.

Pest Control | Property Management Company

As the weather cools down, animals may find your warm and cozy home inviting. To deter pests, seal gaps, cracks, and other entry points. Addressing this now is far more economical than dealing with a raccoon family or a mouse infestation in the middle of winter.

Furnace and HVAC Systems Inspection

Arrange for a furnace cleaning to have filters replaced and any buildup removed, especially if you have oil-burning furnaces. Regularly check your HVAC systems and continue to replace filters as needed.

Windows and Doors Inspection

Examine the seals on your windows and doors to ensure they are airtight. Use caulk or add rubber seals to areas where cold air or water could seep in.

By completing these interior maintenance tasks, you can ensure your property is well-prepared for the fall and upcoming winter seasons.

Get Maintenance by the Premier Property Management Company in Town

Scott Properties of the Midlands provides owners of single-family homes the chance to get ultimate maintenance service without any hiccups. Simply submit a non-emergency maintenance request on our portal and enjoy five-star maintenance that gets your property ready for potential tenants and buyers through the winter.

Contact us today for complete property management services.