Coming into winter is a good time for rental property owners to take proactive steps to protect their investments and ensure properties are maintained well.

Here are some winter maintenance tips to keep your property safe, efficient, and comfortable all season long.

Inspect and Service Heating/Ventilation Systems

Heating and ventilation systems are critical during winter. It’s recommended that heatpumps or heating and ventilation systems are serviced annually to ensure they are functioning efficiently. Of course, tenants can help this by cleaning heatpump filters during their standard cleaning routines, but often a more thorough inspection/service is needed to ensure good working order and avoid costly repairs in future.

For properties with fireplaces ensure chimneys are cleaned and inspected to prevent fire hazards. A professional property manager will have this scheduled as part of your annual maintenance.

Check the Roof and Gutters

During property inspections coming up to winter it’s a good idea to check the state of the property’s gutters/roof and drainage as these can lead to leaks. Heavy rainfall and storms can stress roofing systems. Check for cracked tiles, blocked gutters, and rusting downpipes. Clear out leaves and debris that can cause overflows and leaks. Ensuring proper drainage now helps prevent water ingress and damage to interiors during winter storms.

If gutters need cleaning, enlist the help of a compliant tradesperson or liaise with your Property Manager to ensure this is done.

Garden/Tree Trims

Trimming overhanging trees/shrubs, especially near rooves or drainage, is a good idea coming into winter. Any big garden trimming is a landlord’s responsibility for a property so should be planned and noted at property inspections. Reducing oversized trees/shrubbery will also minimise blocked drainage.

Dampness and Mould Prevention

Winter in New Zealand often brings persistent rain and humidity, leading to condensation and mould. Ensure extractor fans are installed and functioning in kitchens and bathrooms if able to do so. Extractor fans or a continuous mechanical ventilation system are part of the Ventilation component of the Healthy Homes Standards. Your property may already comply, need work, or be exempt.

You should also encourage tenants to ventilate the property and keep curtains open regularly to help with air flow and keep moisture out.

Communicate with Tenants

Keep tenants informed of any maintenance work and encourage them to report leaks, or issues early. Reporting maintenance is a legal requirement of tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). Tenants can help prevent issues from escalating if maintenance is reported promptly such as leaks or poor drainage that could worsen in winter conditions.

Staying ahead of winter maintenance isn’t just about avoiding costly repairs—it’s about meeting legal obligations and ensuring tenants are living in a warm, dry, and safe home. By planning now, landlords can avoid common winter headaches and maintain long-term value in their property investments.

Taking care of your investment property doesn’t have to be onerous. Our experienced and proactive property team is here to handle every seasonal maintenance need – so you don’t have to. With us, you can know your property is well looked after year around. Get in touch today because managing property shouldn’t take up your valuable time.   

At apm, we have it all taken care of.

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