As the golden hues of autumn roll in and temperatures start to dip, it’s crucial for property owners to take proactive steps to safeguard their vacant properties. Fall is a transitional season, and without proper preparation, small issues can snowball into costly winter headaches. Protect your investment and give yourself peace of mind by following these top five maintenance tips for vacant properties before fall arrives:
1. Comprehensive Roof and Exterior Inspection
Your property’s first line of defense against the elements is its roof and exterior. A little diligence now can prevent major issues later.
Roof Care: Check for missing or damaged shingles, signs of wear and tear, and potential leaks around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Address these promptly to avoid water intrusion or damage from snow and ice.
Exterior Maintenance: Inspect siding for cracks, gaps, or peeling paint that could allow moisture in. Pay attention to structural damage, and remove any bird or squirrel nests that could pose problems.
Tip: Catching these issues early is not just a money-saver—it also protects your home’s integrity throughout the harsh winter months.
2. Winterize Plumbing and Heating Systems
Plumbing issues are among the most common (and expensive) problems for vacant properties in cold weather. Prepare ahead of time:
Protect Against Frozen Pipes: Disconnect and store garden hoses, shut off water to outdoor faucets, and drain the pipes to prevent freezing. Inside, ensure exposed pipes are insulated.
Heating Preparation: Set your thermostat to around 15°C (59°F). This keeps the property warm enough to prevent freezing while maintaining energy efficiency. It’s also a critical step to protect belongings and structural elements like drywall.
Tip: Invest in a smart thermostat for remote monitoring, ensuring the temperature stays consistent.
3. Secure the Property
Vacant properties can attract unwanted attention, from curious wildlife to potential intruders. Make sure your property is secure:
Property Protection: Replace plywood boarding with steel door and window guards. Steel offers far better protection against break-ins while maintaining a professional appearance.
Pest Prevention: Seal any gaps or cracks where critters might enter. Ensure attic vents, crawl spaces, and basements are properly secured.
Tip: Install motion-activated lights and security cameras for added deterrence and peace of mind.
4. Gutter and Drainage Maintenance
Water damage is a silent but serious threat to vacant properties. Clean gutters and manage drainage before heavy rains or early snowfalls.
Clean Gutters: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris to ensure proper water flow.
Check Drainage: Make sure downspouts direct water at least six feet away from the foundation to prevent erosion or flooding.
Prevent Freezing: Once temperatures drop, water trapped in clogged gutters can freeze, causing damage to the structure.
Tip: Consider installing gutter guards to minimize future debris build-up.
5. Lawn and Exterior Preparation
Don’t forget about the landscaping. A well-maintained exterior not only protects your property but also keeps it visually appealing.
Yard Maintenance: Fertilize your lawn to strengthen the roots before winter, and trim overhanging branches that could break during storms.
Repair Driveways and Walkways: Fix cracks to prevent further damage during the freeze-thaw cycle.
Store and Protect: Put away outdoor furniture, tools, and equipment. Clean and inspect window screens and caulking for a tight seal.
Tip: Take this time to clean dryer vents, too—this often-overlooked task helps prevent fire hazards during colder months.
Why These Tips Matter
By tackling these maintenance tasks now, you’re doing more than just protecting your property from fall and winter elements. You’re also:
Avoiding costly emergency repairs.
Preserving the value of your property.
Ensuring the safety and security of your investment.
A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring your vacant property weathers the season without issue. When spring arrives, you’ll thank yourself for putting in the effort now.