Preventing Pipes from Freezing this Winter

 3 Steps to Protect Your Rental Property's Pipes

Extreme or sudden freezes can be a major concern for landlords, as frozen pipes can lead to water damage, costly repairs, and unhappy tenants. However, there are steps that landlords can take to protect their properties and minimize the risk of damage from freezing temperatures.

Before we dive in, it's important to understand how pipes freeze and how to identify when they are in danger. Pipes are most likely to freeze when the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and they are located in uninsulated areas, such as basements, attics, or crawl spaces. Signs that pipes may be freezing include a decrease in water pressure, a change in the color or taste of the water, or a loud banging noise when the water is turned on. Follow these three steps to prevent damage to your investment:

1. Insulate

To prevent pipes from freezing, landlords should take steps to insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as basements and attics. This can be done by wrapping pipes in insulation, using pipe sleeves, or installing heat tape. Additionally, landlords should make sure that any vents or ducts in unheated areas are properly sealed to prevent cold air from entering the space.

2. Inspect

It's also important for landlords to be proactive about checking the property for potential issues before the weather turns cold. This might include inspecting the property for leaks, checking the thermostat, and making sure that all windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent drafts. Landlords should also consider turning the water off and draining the pipes before a forecasted freeze, as well as installing a freeze alarm to alert them of potential issues.

3. Inform

Another step that landlords can take to protect their property is to provide tenants with information on how to prevent pipes from freezing and what to do if they suspect that pipes are freezing. This might include providing tenants with information on how to properly maintain their heating systems, how to properly use space heaters, and how to turn off the water in case of an emergency.

Overall, landlords can take a number of steps to protect their properties from extreme or sudden freezes. By taking steps to insulate pipes, being proactive about identifying and addressing potential issues, and providing tenants with information and resources, landlords can minimize the risk of damage and protect their investments.