Preparing Your Property For Autum

Landlords may want to prepare their properties and maybe give their rentals a thorough once-over.

Here is a quick guide to getting ready for all that autumn will bring our way.

Air conditioning care

Your air conditioning unit has probably been working overtime recently and deserves a break. Before you turn it off for the winter, give it a good clean. If your unit is outdoors call in an expert to clean the coils and give it a good service. If you have been using a heat pump then give the vents a good clean and wipe down surfaces. Clear away any plants, debris, or branches that may be blocking vents.

Get going on those gutters

Clogged gutters can channel water down the side of your home where it eventually damages the foundation and also causes other problems. Get out your ladder and clean out debris by hand. If your property is one-story, you can get an attachment for your leaf blower that will tidy them in a flash. If this all seems like too much work, call a professional.

Get fired up

Clogged chimneys can be hazardous so either clean it yourself or call in a professional before winter arrives. Also, inspect the flue and doors for any damage. Order firewood now for the best prices and selection.

Prepping your yard

The extremely dry Auckland summer we have just experienced has left lawns stressed. It is really important to fertilize your lawn soon so it will grow back lush and green in the spring. Parched plants will have dead branches, leaves, and flowers that need to be trimmed. Tidy up leaves that have fallen so that water may reach the roots of trees and bushes.

Leaves make great compost. Collect them in a wire-netting tube. They’ll break down in time for composting prior to spring planting. Fruit trees will require soil treatments to ready them for colder weather so they thrive through the winter. Pull out any plants that have died over the summer. Don’t forget to plant bulbs for spring!

What about windows and doors?

Windows and doors are major sources of heat loss but you can avert this by adding weatherstripping. Retailers such as Bunnings and Mitre 10 sell window insulator kits that are serious gamechangers for warmth and energy efficiency. It just takes a few days of preparation to prevent major inefficiencies and emergencies so take the time to fortify your property during autumn.

For properties managed by Barfoot & Thompson

Our property managers work with landlords to arrange seasonal maintenance as required. For advice and more information contact one of our property managers.