Winterization Checklist for Multi-Family Apartments

When winterizing multifamily rental apartments, it is essential to think beyond storm damage prevention. Cold temperatures, ice buildup, freezing, thawing, and even rain can cause significant issues. Moreover, indoor hazards like holiday lights, candles, and space heaters add to the risks. Data from the Insurance Information Institute shows that winter storms caused a record $15 billion in insured losses in 2021 alone. Other than winter storms issues such as ice buildup, freezing & more are known to play havoc each year. 

If you are planning to start preparing your apartment buildings for winter, BFPM is here to help you stay ahead of the impact of the season. Protect your properties from avoidable winter damage and ensure the safety of your residents with this comprehensive property management maintenance checklist—featuring the top steps for winterizing apartment buildings. 

How to Winterize an Apartment 

Winterizing your multi-family apartments is essential for protecting both your property and residents from harsh seasonal conditions. It is more than a good practice—it is a must. Here is the list of 10 expert cold-weather tips for apartments to help you stay cozy throughout the winter!

1. Preventive Maintenance

Before the season arrives, remember to service your boilers and furnaces. Investing a small amount in maintenance now can save you from costly repairs later. Simple tasks like cleaning and replacing filters can keep everything running smoothly when the cold weather hits. Pro tip: Establishing a regular maintenance schedule will spare you the hassle of finding appointments when winter arrives, and providers are busy with other clients. 

Ensure your heating system works properly well ahead of the cold weather by testing it for a few hours to confirm adequate heating. You don’t want to deal with repairs while residents are shivering in the middle of winter. 

Also, conduct preventive maintenance by checking exposed pipes for any signs of cracks or corrosion. With low temperatures, frozen pipes pose a serious risk of bursting.  

2. Ensure Your Service Contracts for Snow Clearing Are in Place

During a snowstorm, snow-cleaning service providers can be hard to find. To avoid inconveniencing your residents, ensure you have snow-clearing service contracts established well in advance. 

Additionally, create a snow distribution plan to determine how and where to remove snow from roofs. 

It is also wise to keep de-icing chemicals readily available. Options like sodium chloride, commonly known as rock salt, and calcium chloride each have their own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to choose the best fit for your needs. 

3. Energy Efficient Appliances

The use of energy-efficient appliances can go a long way in keeping residents comfortable and in keeping electricity bills low. Think of furnaces & boilers as well as LED bulbs. The use of smart home devices is also prudent in winterizing your apartment as they help in setting the heating to the necessary requirements & cut down energy usage. 

4. Keep the home insulated

The answer to how to winterize an apartment is to keep it insulated. It is imperative that you inspect the home for any cracks as water can seep in through the cracks. Besides it can cause cold air to come in causing discomfort & high electricity bills. Repairing any cracks as well as using insulated windows can, therefore, go a long way in keeping the apartments warm and energy bills under control. Installing weather stripping around doors & windows is also effective in keeping cold wind at bay.  

5. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Another aspect that must find a place in your winterizing checklist is checking for carbon monoxide detectors. CDC report has found instances of carbon monoxide poisoning to be the highest during cold weather. It stands to reason, as people are most likely to use gas furnaces and heaters in this season while windows are kept shut. In fact, as per the report titled Unintentional Non-Fire-Related Carbon Monoxide Exposures — United States, 2001–2003, approximately 480 U.S. residents died each year from non-fire-related CO poisoning, and an estimated 15,200 persons with confirmed or possible non-fire-related CO exposure or poisoning were treated annually in U.S. hospital emergency departments. 

It is imperative, therefore, that the residents be educated on how to avoid a dangerous buildup. Also make sure that carbon monoxide detectors are in proper working order so that any increase in levels can be detected early.  

6. Insulate Your Pipes

Begin by inspecting pipes that run through exterior walls or are exposed to outdoor elements, as these are the most vulnerable to freezing in low temperatures. A frozen pipe can burst, leading to costly repairs. Check for small cracks or signs of corrosion, particularly in older pipes, as these weak spots are more prone to breaches. Taking these preventive measures will help protect your plumbing and avoid potential damage during colder months. 

7. Develop a Strategic Snow-Distribution Plan

Collaborate with a structural engineer or your snow-removal vendor to effectively manage snow buildup on roofs and overhangs. This is especially crucial for flat roofs, where snow doesn’t naturally slide off. Snow can quickly add weight, especially if it turns to rain and the fallen snow absorbs the water. Additionally, melting snow that freezes can create ice dams, which block gutters and lead to pooling, potentially causing leaks inside walls. A well-planned snow-distribution strategy ensures your property stays safe and prevents damage throughout the winter season. 

8. Keep De-Icing Chemicals Ready

Stock up on de-icing agents suited for various weather conditions. Rock salt (sodium chloride) is affordable but corrosive to concrete and works best above 12°F. Calcium chloride, though pricier, remains effective in temperatures as low as -20°F. Consider using it in high-traffic areas, while applying rock salt elsewhere. For proactive protection, calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) can be applied before bad weather. Although it doesn’t melt ice, it makes removal easier, though it becomes less effective below 20°F. By keeping a mix of de-icing agents, you can ensure safe and manageable surfaces during winter. 

8. Trim Your Trees for Winter Safety

Prepare for winter storms by trimming your trees to avoid damage from snow, ice, and high winds. A quick trim now can prevent costly repairs later. Focus on branches hanging over buildings, driveways, sidewalks, and power lines to reduce risk. Removing dead or dying trees ensures additional safety, protecting your property from potential hazards as winter weather approaches. 

9. Inspect for Cracks

Cracks in walls or foundations allow water to seep in, leading to potential mold and moisture damage. When temperatures drop, freezing water can expand the cracks, worsening the damage. Moreover, cold air passing through cracks increases drafts and raises energy costs. Regularly inspect your home’s walls, foundations, and for any cracks, and repair them promptly to prevent long-term issues and maintain efficiency. 

10. Check Fire Alarms and Educate Residents on Kitchen Safety

Thanksgiving and Christmas see a rise in residential fires, often due to cooking accidents. Educate your residents about kitchen safety, like avoiding deep-frying frozen turkeys. Test smoke alarms to ensure they are functional and current. While some states mandate fire extinguishers in rental kitchens, it is a smart safety measure to provide them, even if it is not required. Promote a safe environment and reduce fire risks during the holidays. 

Conclusion 

As you implement essential winterization precautions, encourage your residents to report any issues they notice. Small problems can escalate into significant concerns if left unaddressed, so fostering open communication is key. With this comprehensive home winterization checklist, you can confidently handle winter challenges and ensure a cozy living environment for everyone. Proactively addressing maintenance will help create a worry-free atmosphere, allowing residents to enjoy the season fully. Say goodbye to winter woes and embrace the joy of the holidays! By working together with the residents, you can ensure a warm, safe, and happy home for all the cold months ahead. 

For any inquiries about property management, feel free to contact us at BFPMInc.!