Fall has finally hit us in New York City. The temperature has finally turned and we are seeing leaves turn colors and fall from their tree’s branches. As Halloween is around the corner property management professionals should start looking at preventing issues to their properties as the temperature continues to drop. So what should property management companies prepare for? Here are BJD Property Management we start preparing and here are some of the issues that we like to address in the fall season.
Cleaning gutters and drains throughout the property
As you may be aware the leaves begin to pile up in both the gutters and the drainage system throughout your properties. It is important to inspect and if need be clean all the gutters around the house. By doing so, you will be preventing possible roof, ceiling and water leaks. Clearing drains around the perimeter of the premises as well. If you do have a basement, not clearing the drainage can cause problems in the foundation that you may not be able to ascertain should there be an issue immediately. It can potentially be too late when you do and at that point you may have problems with water in your basement and mold which is costly to remediate. Estimates in New York City for clearing mold and water in the basement starts at roughly $1,500.00. While clearing the drainage, it is also important to clear the yard of leaves and broken branches. This can cause potential injury to your tenants or visitors if they are not paying attention. You should also check if all safety railings are sturdy as more rainy /snowy weather makes the walk more treacherous.
Inspecting Your Boiler and HVAC Systems
The probability is the boiler has not been turned on since late Spring. Various issues that occur with a dormant boiler and that is why it is important to have a professional check it. Hire a professional plumber to inspect the chimney and the vent pipe, or flue, between the equipment and the chimney. Any leaks or blockage in this pipe or in the chimney could fill the house with carbon monoxide gas which are harmful and poisonous for humans.
The biggest reason for inefficient HVAC are leaks. It is important to inspect windows and doors for any air that might be coming through. Apply weather stripping to windows and doors to seal them from air leaks. You should also check the ventilation ducts for inefficiencies.
Inspection of Interior of Premises for Safety Concerns
The fall season is a period that we see the most fires occur in houses. One of the ways to be on top of this as to save lives is to make sure all of the preventative systems are in place. Make sure that the CO2 and Smoke detector is in working condition. All fire extinguishers should be inspected to make sure they are in working condition as well as the sprinkler systems. Having an inspection take place takes as little as 30 minutes and could be a key factor in saving lives.
At BJD Property Management we are committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of our residents and properties. We maintain high standards and follow all procedures promulgated by the City and State. If you are looking for a professional New York City property management company then we should be your first choice. BJD Property Management is a full service NYC property management company servicing the boroughs of Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Bronx. Whether it be a 1 bedroom condo or multi-family building we are able to assist our clients maximize their investments.