Property Maintenance 101: Tips for Year-Round Care and Upkeep

M&O Property Solutions strives to help you preserve the condition and value of your home and rental properties. To ensure the longevity, safety, and value of a home or apartment consistent attention and preventative maintenance are required. Here are tips, organized by season, from M&O Property Solutions for year-round property maintenance:

 

Spring:

  1. Gutters: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
  2. Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs away from the house to prevent damage.
  3. Roof: Check for roof damage, missing shingles, and leak detection.
  4. Siding: Pressure wash the exterior to remove dirt and potential biological overgrowth.
  5. Air conditioner: clean filters and coils in preparation for summer.

Call M&O for gutter repair, roofing repair, power washing, landscaping, and air conditioner repair needs.

 

Summer:

  1. Exterior: Inspect siding, shutters, windows, and fences for damages and paint touch-ups.
  2. Foundations: Check foundation, decks, and patios for cracks, damage, or wear.
  3. Lawn care: Set up a lawn mowing schedule and water as needed.

Call M&O for shutter repairs, exterior painting, fence repair, fence staining, fence painting, exterior repair, and exterior remodeling.

 

Fall:

  1. Chimney and fireplace: Clean and ensure proper ventilation.
  2. Draft prevention: Seal gaps around doors and windows to prevent drafts. You may save on your electricity bill with this preventative measure!
  3. Insulation prep: insulate pipes, drain sprinkler systems if needed, and prepare landscaping.

Call M&O for window caulking, furnace repairs, and general handyman services.

 

Winter:

  1. HVAC: Service heating systems, including furnaces and boilers to ensure efficiency. Once a year, flush water heaters to remove sediment buildup. Test sump pumps to prevent basement flooding.
  2. Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes and keep cabinets under sinks open to prevent freezing.
  3. Snow: Keep driveways, and sidewalks clear of snow and ice.

 

Call M&O for water heater repair and HVAC maintenance.

In addition to seasonal checklists, we recommend performing the following property maintenance twice a year. M&O Property Solutions can assist with the annual inspections of HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems.

Interior Maintenance:

  • Test smoke detectors carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers
  • Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement
  • Clean or replace HVAC filters regularly for efficient operation
  • Inspect and clean dryer vents to prevent fires
  • Check and replace caulking around tubs and showers
  • Test and ensure all doors and windows open and close properly
  • Inspect and repair any cracks or damage to walls, ceilings, and floors
  • Audit service appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers
  • Monitor for signs of pests and rodents
  • Schedule periodic deep cleaning of carpets and upholstery

Electrical Maintenance:

  • Inspect electrical outlets and switches for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace any flickering bulbs or malfunctioning switches
  • Test ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and reset if necessary
  • Check the electrical panel for any signs of overheating or damage

Safety Checks:

  • Maintain stair railings and banisters for safety
  • Review emergency evacuation plans and communicate with homeowners or tenants
  • Check locks and deadbolts on doors and windows for security

By adhering to these tips for year-round care of your property, you can minimize unexpected repairs and maximize the value of your investment. With M&O Property Solutions your property is our priority, and we are happy to partner with you on conducting regular maintenance of your home. Call us to discuss your property maintenance needs further.