In Seattle, winters are wet and cold. The city gets 37 inches of rain on average every year, which can cause water damage and lead to expensive repairs. When you’re renting out property in Seattle or other western Washington areas like Tacoma, Burien, Normandy Park, Des Moines, and Federal Way, you want to focus on keeping your property dry and free from leaks with the help of an organized preventative maintenance plan.

Here are some tips for rental property maintenance in Seattle.

Check Your Roof and Gutters

Seattle’s winter weather is conducive to the growth of moss, which can cause cracks and leaks in the roof. Check your roof shingles for moss or hire a professional to inspect, clean, and treat the roof for moss to ensure it is done properly and safely.

The gutters also need equal attention. In Seattle, your gutters will collect leaves, sticks, and other debris, allowing water to pool and saturate your property. Cleaning gutters regularly pushes water and moisture away from the property, thereby improving its life.

Trim Trees and Branches

Keeping your trees trimmed and neat will preserve the value and condition of your home. In addition, it increases the curb appeal, making it easier for you to get good tenants. If you’re renting out a single-family home or units in a multi-family building, pay attention to the trees that may be a threat to the roof, windows, and any outdoor space.

Maintaining trees and bushes minimizes the damage that can occur during storms and rain. For instance, trimming shrubs back to a safe distance from the siding allows for more air circulation and lets your home’s exterior dry properly. Trim tree branches away from all electrical connections and wires and remove dead debris that can blow off in windy conditions.

This is not only good preventative maintenance; it addresses a security concern as well. Seattle has a relatively high crime rate; there were over 30,000 cases of burglaries and theft in the city in 2020. Tall bushes and a poorly maintained yard may provide cover for people who try to break into the property, hence it is important to trim them in time.

Provide Preventative Pest Control

Keeping pests, insects, and rodents out of your rental property needs to be a priority as they damage your investment and drive away tenants.

Schedule routine pest control for the interior and exterior of your rental properties to prevent common pests like odorous household and carpenter ants from nesting in loose wood and cracks around the foundation or near the roof.

Conduct Exterior Inspections

If you have a deck, patio, or balconies on your units, ensure that you inspect them annually. Seal wood surfaces against the rain, wind, and cold weather. Good preventative maintenance on the exterior of your property prevents mold and decay and keeps the residents safe. Have someone seal and treat all outdoor surfaces and inspect the roof. Clean out chimneys and fireplaces and make sure the steps, walkways, and driveways are free of cracks, trip and fall hazards, and other issues that can worsen during the winter.

These are some of the preventative maintenance precautions we recommend you take with your investment property. If you need help or would like customized recommendations for your properties contact our team at ACRES Property Management. We provide property management services in Seattle as well as Tacoma, Burien, Normandy Park, Des Moines, and Federal Way, and surrounding areas.