It’s starting to feel a bit like Fall, with cooler temps and leaves already falling here in Colorado Springs. Which means it’s time to get a jump on prepping your Colorado Springs rental property for the change of seasons. Preparing rental homes before winter not only protects the investment for landlords but also ensures tenants stay safe and comfortable. Whether you own rental properties in Colorado Springs or rent a home here, these fall preparation tips will help you get ready for the season.
Fall Preparation Tips for Colorado Springs Landlords
1. Schedule Furnace & HVAC Maintenance
Winters in Colorado Springs can be unpredictable and harsh. For this reason, rental property owners should schedule a professional furnace inspection each fall to ensure their heating systems are ready before the first freeze. A well-maintained HVAC system enhances energy efficiency, reduces breakdowns, and ensures tenant satisfaction. Not to mention preventative maintenance pays for itself. Catching issues with your rental property’s heating system before temps really drop helps avoid disastrous emergencies and cold weather damage.
2. Clean Gutters and Inspect the Roof
Colorado Springs neighborhoods with mature trees are especially prone to clogged gutters in the fall. Clogged gutters can cause serious property damage. From foundation issues to leaks to roof and siding damage, it’s important to ensure your rental property’s gutters are free and clear and draining water away from the property itself. Clean gutters and downspouts, and check for roof damage to avoid leaks and costly repairs once snow and ice arrive.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts are one of the most common complaints in rental homes during winter. Replacing worn weatherstripping and caulking gaps around windows and doors can help lower energy bills and keep tenants comfortable. Check the door sweep, too, inspecting from top to bottom. If the door is closed and you can see light through the gaps, then it’s not sealed properly. If your windows and doors are fairly old, it may be time to consider replacing them instead. Replacing them with energy-efficient models may be a worthwhile long-term investment that improves property value and attracts quality tenants.
4. Winterize Outdoor Features
Frozen or burst pipes cause significant damage. And as temps rise and fall throughout the season in Colorado Springs, it’s easy to push this task aside or save it for later. However, it’s important to winterize the outside of your property effectively and thoroughly. Shut off outdoor water lines, drain sprinkler systems, and insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing. Once they’ve been winterized, inform tenants not to turn them back on. Doing so can lead to damage when temps do drop below freezing. It also helps to double-check exterior lighting as well. While changing lightbulbs is usually a tenant responsibility, a little extra attention never hurts, especially when shorter days mean tenants rely on safe, well-lit walkways.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety is essential in every rental property. Replace batteries in smoke and CO detectors and test them to make sure they are working properly. Heating season often comes with increased fire and carbon monoxide risks. Check to make sure all smoke and CO detectors are properly installed and not expired (because they do actually have a shelf life!). Test and replace batteries while on site, even if it is typically a tenant responsibility to do so. It never hurts to be extra careful.
Fall Preparation Tips for Colorado Springs Tenants
1. Report Issues Right Away
One of the biggest responsibilities tenants have at a rental property is reporting issues promptly and through the correct channels. If something breaks or doesn’t appear to be working properly, don’t wait to report it. Contact your landlord or property manager right away so they’re aware and can address the situation appropriately.
2. Use Heat Wisely
Avoid turning the thermostat off when leaving for trips in the winter. Colorado Springs temperatures can drop quickly, and frozen pipes are a costly problem. Instead, set the heat to a consistent, moderate temperature. Check your lease for any requirements in this regard. Some leases have a limit to how low you should set the heat in order to prevent property damage.
3. Yard and Walkway Care
If lawn care is part of your lease responsibilities, make sure leaves are raked and walkways are kept clear. Once snow hits, keep sidewalks shoveled to prevent slip hazards. Follow the required timelines for snow removal in your district. Most require walkways and driveways to be shoveled within 24 hours of when snowfall ends.
4. Reduce Drafts and Save Energy
Open blinds on sunny days to take advantage of natural heat, then close them at night to keep warmth inside. Dressing in layers indoors also helps keep heating bills under control. If you find any leaks of drafts, make sure to report them right away. If you have ceiling fans, flip the switch to rotate them so that they spin clockwise. This pulls warm air down, making living spaces feel warmer. This simple step can help lower heating costs and keep homes more comfortable.
5. Keep Vents and Radiators Clear
Keeping heating systems working efficiently falls on the landlords shoulders, but there are things tenants can do to help, too. Keep air vents, baseboard heaters, and radiators free and clear. Avoid blocking vents with furniture or rugs to keep air flowing. Furnaces have to work harder to heat up the property when airflow is restricted, making them less efficient and increasing your energy bill. Dust and vacuum vents regularly. This improves efficiency as well as air quality. Be mindful of space heaters. Make sure they’re kept a safe distance from curtains or furniture. Don’t leave them unattended or running constantly either to avoid them overheating and potentially catching fire.
Why Fall Maintenance Matters in Colorado Springs
- Unpredictable Weather: Fall days in Colorado Springs can shift from warm to freezing overnight. Being prepared prevents last-minute emergencies.
- First Snowfall Comes Early: Snow often arrives by October, so snow shovels, de-icer, and other supplies should be ready by then.
- Protecting Investments: For landlords, fall property maintenance reduces long-term repair costs and protects your rental home’s value. For tenants, it means a more comfortable and safer living space.
Fall preparation is essential for both landlords and tenants in Colorado Springs. By working together on seasonal maintenance, rental properties stay safe, efficient, and well cared for.
If you’re a landlord looking for stress-free property management in Colorado Springs, our team can help handle seasonal maintenance, tenant communication, and year-round care for your rental property. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect your investment and keep your tenants happy this fall and beyond.
