As the seasons change and the temperatures begin to drop, multifamily communities face unique challenges in preparing for the colder months. Winter can bring many weather-related issues—snow, ice, freezing temperatures, pests, and more—which, if not addressed properly during winter maintenance preparation, can lead to costly damage and dangerous conditions for residents.

To avoid these potential problems, a well-planned winter maintenance strategy paired with early implementation is essential. Take a look at some of the key steps multifamily properties should take to prepare their communities for winter:

 

Inspect & Service HVAC Systems:

As temperatures drop, residents will rely on heating systems to keep warm. An underperforming or malfunctioning HVAC system can cause uncomfortable living conditions, resident complaints, and costly emergency repairs.

Take action:

• Inspect heating systems: Ensure HVAC units are in good working order before winter, including checking thermostats, filters, and air ducts for issues.
• Schedule preventive maintenance: Certified HVAC professionals should clean and service boilers, furnaces, and heat pumps.
• Replace air filters: Clean or replace HVAC filters to improve air quality and efficiency. Dirty filters can cause the system to work harder, leading to higher energy costs and potential breakdowns.

 

Check Gutters & Drainage Systems:

Clogged gutters and downspouts in colder climates can cause ice dams. This may cause water to leak into the property, damaging roofs and walls. Proper drainage is essential in avoiding these issues and ensuring water flows away from buildings rather than into them.

Take action:

• Clean gutters: Remove debris such as leaves and twigs from gutters and downspouts. This prevents blockages that could lead to ice buildup and roof leaks.
• Inspect drainage systems: Ensure drainage paths are clear and are directing water away from buildings. Repair any damaged or misaligned gutters.
• Install gutter guards: Gutter guards help minimize future clogging and reduce the risk of ice dams during winter. Consider installing them to make your preparation for the winter months easier!

 

Inspect & Insulate Pipes:

One of the most common and costly issues during winter months is frozen pipes. If water pipes freeze and burst, they can cause severe water damage, disrupting residents’ lives and leading to expensive repairs.

Take action:

• Inspect exposed pipes: Focus on pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and exterior walls. Check for signs of wear or damage that could potentially lead to leaks or freezing.
• Install insulation: Protect exposed pipes from freezing temperatures by using foam or fiberglass pipe wrap to insulate. Make sure to check sprinkler systems and outdoor faucets.
• Advise residents: Send residents a seasonal reminder to keep their thermostats set at a consistent temperature and leave faucets dripping during extreme cold to prevent frozen pipes.

 

Prepare for Snow & Ice Removal:

Slippery sidewalks, parking lots, and entryways can become extremely dangerous for residents and employees, leading to falls and injuries. Ensuring timely and thorough snow and ice removal helps maintain a safe environment and minimizes risks.

Take action:

• Stock up on supplies: Ensure that your community has sufficient ice melt, sand, shovels, and snow blowers if you typically experience snow. Stockpile these items before the first snowfall to avoid last-minute shortages and high costs.
• Service snow removal equipment: Test and repair snowplows, snow blowers, and salt spreaders to ensure they’re in working order when needed.
• Create a snow removal plan: Designate staff or contractors to handle snow and ice removal. Prioritize high-traffic areas like walkways, entryways, parking lots, and driveways to improve resident life. Develop a schedule for frequent clearing, especially after heavy snowfall and storms.

 

Check Roofs for Damage:

A roof is the first line of defense against winter weather. Even minor damage such as loose shingles or cracks can allow snow and ice to penetrate, causing water leaks and leading to costly repairs and resident dissatisfaction. Roof damage often occurs in the fall months, as foliage breaks and falls, and the lowering temperatures cause cracks to grow in size.

Take action:

• Inspect roofs: Professionals should inspect roofs for any signs of damage, such as cracked, loose, or missing shingles. Pay special attention to flat roofs, which are prone to snow accumulation.
• Repair and reinforce: Fix any damaged areas immediately to prevent them from worsening under the weight of snow or ice.
• Check for proper insulation: Roofs and attics must be properly insulated to reduce heat loss and prevent ice dams from forming.

 

Seal Windows & Doors:

Improperly sealed windows and doors can result in drafts causing significant heat loss. This can lead to higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions for residents. Sealing these gaps ahead of time can improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

Take action:

• Check for drafts: Check all windows and doors for drafts, cracks, or gaps in the seals.
• Replace weather stripping: Install or replace weather stripping on doors and windows to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.
• Caulk gaps: Apply caulking to seal gaps that may be found around window frames and door thresholds. This helps block out cold air and moisture.

 

Prepare Residents with Winter Safety Tips & Emergency Information:

Resident safety is a top priority, and providing clear communication on winter precautions can help prevent accidents. For example, extreme weather can cause wifi and power outages. Communicate this possibility with residents as storms grow nearby and inform them of any necessary precautions or steps they should take. Furthermore, having an emergency preparedness plan in place ensures that your team is ready to handle unforeseen circumstances and keep residents safe. A strong line of communication with residents helps prepare them for the winter months and enhances the overall community experience!

Take action:

• Send out seasonal newsletters: Provide residents with winter preparation tips, like how to avoid frozen pipes, where to park during snow removal, and whom to contact in case of maintenance emergencies.
• Promote safety awareness: Remind residents to be cautious on slippery surfaces and to report any issues with ice or snow buildup immediately.
• Update emergency contacts: Ensure residents have easy access to the community’s emergency contact information and after-hours maintenance support.
• Test backup systems: If your property has backup generators or heating systems, ensure they are fully functional and ready for use in case of an outage.

 

 

Winter maintenance preparation is vital to multifamily property management, ensuring that buildings are safe, efficient, and comfortable during the cold months. Property managers can prevent costly repairs, minimize safety risks, and enhance the overall resident experience by following these steps.

Planning and taking preventive action can make the difference between a smooth winter and one filled with unexpected emergencies. Being proactive enables your multifamily community to be well-prepared to handle whatever winter throws your way!

 

Searching for professionals to help prepare your community for winter? Request HVAC Technicians, Maintenance Technicians, Groundskeepers, Porters, and more here!

Looking for work? Apply for open jobs in a growing industry here!