Spring is just around the corner! If you’re a rental property owner on Long Island in the Huntington, Smithtown, Babylon, Islip, Brookhaven, Riverhead, Southampton and East Hampton townships, there’s a good chance you might have spent much of the winter living the snowbird life down south. If you’re planning your big spring return to the area, there are some maintenance projects you’ll need to complete to get your property ready for the warmer weather.
Here are five key pieces of maintenance to get started on at your rental properties to ensure a stress-free spring and summer.
1. Inspect and clean your gutters and downspouts.
Winter weather can take a toll on your gutters and downspouts, so it’s important to inspect them for damage and clear them of any debris that may have accumulated over the winter months. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, so it’s important to check them thoroughly for debris and clear them out before spring is in full swing. You can do this yourself or hire a professional cleaning service. Either way, be sure to get it done before the spring rains start!
2. Check your roof for damage.
Even after the milder winter we’ve had here on Long Island, it’s important to inspect your roof for any damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles, as heavy snow isn’t the only thing that can cause issues. Heavy rain and wind can also cause missing shingles or damage that could lead to bigger problems down the line. If you find any problems, be sure to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Remember: Always hire a professional roofer if your roof needs repair! Roof repair may seem like a task you can take on yourself, but it can be dangerous. Any project that takes you 20+ feet off the ground is best left to the professionals!
3. Inspect your windows and doors.
Cold weather can cause condensation to form on your windows and doors. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, especially when temperatures warm quickly, which can cause lasting structural damage to your property and can be a health hazard for tenants. Be sure to inspect these areas of your property for any signs of moisture damage and talk to your tenants to see if they noticed any obvious issues over the winter months.
4. Service your HVAC system.
Before truly warm weather arrives for good, your HVAC system will likely need servicing. Be sure to schedule an appointment with an HVAC technician to have your system cleaned and inspected. A qualified HVAC technician will be able to thoroughly inspect, clean, and test your HVAC system to ensure there has been no major winter damage and prepare the system for air conditioning.
5. Clean up your yard.
Your yard is probably in need of some attention too. Start by raking up any leaves or debris, then trimming the bushes and trees. Be sure to also fertilize the lawn so it will be green and healthy all summer long! You may also want to consider hiring a landscaping company to perform some basic yard maintenance tasks, such as mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and planting flowers. While you are working outside, paint or stain any deck or patio furniture. If your deck or patio furniture is looking a little worse for wear, now is a good time to give it a fresh coat of paint or stain. This will help protect it from the elements and keep it looking nice all summer long. Your property will be looking fresh and beautiful to welcome spring!
Not quite ready to leave the southern sunshine yet?
For property owners on Long Island, spring maintenance doesn’t have to stress you out! If you’re enjoying the good life in the Florida sunshine and aren’t ready to say goodbye just yet, let PMI Lighthouse give you some peace of mind.
By letting us take care of your Huntington, Smithtown, Babylon, Islip, Brookhaven, Riverhead, Southampton, or East Hampton property for you, you can relax and enjoy a few extra weeks down south with friends and family, knowing PMI property management has your best interests in mind.
Give us a call today at 631-600-3616 or visit us online at our website to find out more about our full-service residential property management services!
