Cooler Weather is Coming- Time to Prepare

Cooler Weather is Coming!  While that may be extremely hard to believe since Waco Texas is having 80 degree days!  This morning was a little cooler and it felt AMAZING!  While driving to work I was thinking about preparing for cooler weather while we are experiencing the warmer days.   Who wants to wait until it is COLD to clean gutters, wrap faucets, etc 

As property managers for many different owners, we must educate the owners,vendors  and tenants on the importance of reporting issues before they become costly.  These are the  items that I recommend a property owner inspect each year.  During these inspections, owners, property managers and maintenance should be visually inspecting the interior and exterior of the home for other issues.

Gutters- Clean  gutters, downspouts and french drains to ensure that they function properly throughout the winter months.

Roof- While you  have your ladder out cleaning the gutters, now is an excellent time to check your roof.  A visual inspection of your roof making sure the roofing material is flat and properly sealed may save you a ton of money down the road.  Roof leaks are not CHEAP.

Weather Proof doors and Windows-  Check all doors and windows for air  and moisture leaks.  This will help significantly with your heating and cooling costs.

Heating System:  Inspect the heating system, hire a professional to service the heating system and change the filter.  Instruct your tenants on the importance of changing the filter monthly.  When you do your quarterly inspections for rentals, checking a/c filter should definitely be on your checklist. 

Ceiling Fans:  Change your fans to operate in reverse, pushing the heat down or simply turn them off.

Freezing Pipes- Water spigots that are outside should be turned off completely, disconnect water hoses and store those for the winter.  Wrap pipes or purchase the spigot covers from your local home improvement store. 

Landscaping- Trim trees and shrubs away from the home to avoid damage caused by rubbing or falling limbs.  Trimming also improves your curb appeal.

Fireplace- If you use your fireplace regularly you should perform a visual inspection of the fireplace and have the chimney cleaned. 

Thermostats- Consider purchasing a programmable thermostat.  These will save heating/cooling costs and you can program it to keep the home warmer/cooler during times you are home.  You can avoid the costs of heating and cooling your home while everyone is away at work or school.

Get these maintenance chores completed now, Cooler Weather is Coming!  

Get out and enjoy the fall season, cooler weather, campfires, hot cocoa!