Is Your HOA Ready for Cold Weather? 6 Things to Inspect This Fall

If you are an HOA manager, ensuring your community buildings and your residents are prepared for the winter is a crucial part of your job. While your board might have covered your basic needs already, like pool closures, sprinkler blowouts, and fall leaves clean-up, there are still several parts of your buildings that should be inspected and prepped for winter.

Let this guide from your skilled restoration experts at Restoration Rx help you winterize all of your HOA properties!

1. Roofing

It’s always a good idea to have your roof inspected twice a year, once in the fall and again in the spring. Contact a professional specializing in multi-family and HOA roofing to do a thorough inspection of your property’s roofs, like our 50-point inspection.

A quality roof inspection will ensure that your roofs have no leaks, shingles, and tiles are laying properly, all roofing materials are undamaged, and more. If any problems are noted, fixing them immediately before the snow and cold comes ensures your residents are kept safe, and your property won’t experience more harmful damage or costly repairs.

2. Attic Insulation & Ventilation

In addition to having your roof inspected, make sure the inspection covers your attic. Double-check that your attic is properly insulated so heat stays in your building and doesn't run up unnecessary energy bills.

Also, ensure that your buildings are ventilating air well in the attic. It might seem like a good idea to cover or seal attic vents in the winter to stop cold air from entering, but this leads to a build-up of condensation and moisture inside your building. Even a little bit of moisture in your attic can seep into walls and allow mold and mildew to grow, which is a costlier repair than checking your vents!

Have your inspector check your attic vents for damage and replace any that do. And inspect the underside of the roof deck between the deck and the insulation. There should always be space between them to allow air to flow freely.

3. Gutters

Take the time to have all of your gutters cleaned out, checked over, and repaired before the heavy winter weather comes to town. Clean and undamaged gutters allow for proper water drainage away from your property.

Gutters that aren’t effectively draining ice and snow melt, whether from blockages, incorrect installation, or damage, lead to water leaking into your property. Water damage repairs are expensive, so preventing them by inspecting, repairing, and installing an efficient gutter system is the most cost-effective way to winterize your property.

4. Windows

Inspect your windows regularly, but especially before winter sets in, and encourage your tenants and residents to check for leaks around their windows. Weather stripping around windows breaks off over time, causing leaks, and advancements in energy-efficient windows make older models less effective at keeping out cold air.

Replacing leaky windows or installing better-quality ones is an important step in fully winterizing your property. Consult with experts on the best types of windows for your property and learn more about how much money you can save on energy bills just by replacing your windows with energy-efficient ones.

5. Siding

Siding is your community's first line of defense against the elements, so don't forget to include it in your fall inspection checklist. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or peeling paint, and make the necessary repairs or replacements.

Maintaining your community's siding not only enhances its appearance but also protects the homes from moisture and cold air infiltration. Damaged siding can lead to water damage and energy inefficiency, resulting in costly repairs and higher utility bills.

Consider pressure washing the siding to remove built-up grime and prevent mold or mildew growth. A fresh coat of paint or stain can improve the appearance and longevity of your siding. Proper care of exterior walls is vital in ensuring your community remains comfortable and resilient throughout the winter season.

6. Exterior Lighting

A well-lit community not only enhances safety but also adds to the overall aesthetics and curb appeal. As the days get shorter, adequate exterior lighting becomes even more crucial. Inspect all outdoor lighting fixtures to ensure they are working correctly.

Start with streetlights, walkway lights, and common area lighting. Make sure bulbs are functional, and replace any burnt-out ones. Check for loose connections or damaged wiring, as this can lead to unreliable lighting.

Consider switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs if your community hasn't already, which can save on energy costs while providing better illumination. In addition to functional lighting, consider adding decorative lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere during the darker months. String lights, path lighting, and landscape lighting can add character to your community and improve overall safety.

Don't forget to inspect security lighting, such as motion-activated lights, around entrances, parking areas, and other key spots. These lights play a significant role in deterring potential trespassers or intruders during the winter months when darkness comes early. Ensure they are in good working order, with sensors responding correctly to motion.

The Restoration Rx Experts Can Help You!

Preparing your home for the winter can be stressful, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. Our team of experts can help you prepare your property for the cold weather.

Contact Restoration Rx at 605-759-1531 or online to schedule an inspection today!