Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for New England Rentals

New England weather is hard on buildings. Walking through these tasks each season catches small problems before they become expensive ones. This is general guidance for owners; local codes, your lease and your property type can change what applies.

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Spring (March to May)

• Inspect the roof, gutters and downspouts for winter damage and signs of ice dam leaks
• Check ceilings and attic spaces for stains or moisture
• Look for foundation cracks and basement water, and test the sump pump if there is one
• Service or clean the air conditioning before the first hot week
• Clear drains and direct downspouts away from the foundation
• Inspect decks, porches, railings and steps for frost damage
• Check windows, screens and exterior caulking
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries as needed
• Walk the grounds for fallen limbs, drainage problems, fences and walkways

Summer (June to August)

• Replace HVAC filters and make sure the AC condensate line drains
• Look for plumbing leaks under sinks and around water heaters
• Check siding, paint and trim, and schedule exterior painting
• Trim trees and shrubs back from the building and power lines
• Watch for pests such as ants, wasps and rodents, and deal with them early
• Check outdoor faucets and irrigation for leaks
• Seal driveway cracks and repair walkways
• For multifamily and commercial buildings, review parking and common-area lighting

Fall (September to November)

• Clean the gutters after the leaves drop
• Schedule the annual heating system or boiler service before the cold arrives
• Change furnace filters and bleed radiators
• Shut off and drain outdoor faucets and winterize irrigation
• Seal gaps around doors and windows and replace worn weatherstripping
• Have chimneys and wood stoves inspected if the property has them
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when the clocks change
• Confirm who handles plowing, shoveling and salting this winter
• Check roof flashing and trim branches that could fall in a storm

Winter (December to February)

• Keep vacant units heated enough to protect the pipes
• Make sure you and your tenants know where the main water shutoff is
• Watch for ice dams and heavy roof snow, and keep entrances and walkways clear and treated for ice
• Respond quickly to heating problems, drafts and frozen pipes
• Keep vents, heaters and exhausts clear and test detectors
• Inspect after storms: roof, trees, power and basement water
• Plan spring projects and collect estimates early

Tips to share with tenants

• Report leaks and heating problems right away
• Keep the heat on when you are away in winter
• Do not block vents, radiators or exits
• Know where the water shutoff and the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are
• Keep walkways and entrances clear as your lease requires

Rules vary

Snow and ice removal duties, detector requirements and heating standards differ by town, by lease and under state and local housing codes. Check your local ordinances or ask your attorney. This checklist is not legal or engineering advice.

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