GB Property Management is back with more tips for property owners and managers.  This month we tackle every maintenance teams favorite topic winter maintenance and snow removal. We’ve got tips on prepping your building for the New England Winter along with suggestions to ensure you're avoiding pesky and expensive lawsuits.

Preparing for Winter

1. LEAVE THE HEAT ON - Again we are hitting you with common sense, but remember for many residents that is not a strong suit. Before residents head out for a holiday break, make sure to remind them to leave their heat on. A low temperature is fine for those residents not home but to avoid frozen and burst pipes the heat should NEVER be turned off. CLOSE YOUR WINDOWS - In some of the older buildings in Boston with radiator heat, when residents don’t understand how to control the temperature they may open a window. Ensure residents know how to operate their heat and do a quick exterior check for open windows or patio doors.  When you are walking the building interior it is also a good time to be on the lookout for drafts. We have saved a burst pipe or two when the maintenance team noticed a draft coming from an apartment with a window left open by an out of town resident.

2. Inspect roofs, doors, windows, and any other potential area for heat loss or water leakage. Also, make sure to check gutters to avoid ice dams.

3. Check Vacant Units: Ideally your property is fully leased but if you do have a unit that is unoccupied make sure to check that the heat is on and it is ready for winter.

4. Inspect your HVAC systems: Annual maintenance on your HVAC system will ensure it is running properly and efficiently. Checking the system on a regular basis will also help prevent costly and disruptive emergency repairs.

5. Snow Removal: Have your team ready and supplies on hand. Keep detailed logs of snow removal, sanding, salting activity. In Massachusetts, an injured party has up to 3 three years to file a claim!  Detailed records will allow you to fight against a frivolous lawsuit. If an incident does occur, take photos and detailed notes. Having an incident report template to make sure all details are noted by staff is also a great idea.

Is your property ready for winter? Contact us to learn more about how we can better manage your asset to increase residence retention and save you money!