Protect Your Investment Before the Coldest Months Hit

Winter in the South Puget Sound Region brings steady rain, freezing nights, and the kind of weather that can expose hidden weaknesses in your rental property. For landlords and homeowners who have rental properties near Joint Base Lewis-McChord, now is the time to focus on prevention, safety, and protecting long-term value.

Whether your property is in Tacoma, Lacey, Lakewood, DuPont, Yelm, Puyallup, Spanaway, or any nearby community, taking care of essential winter maintenance keeps tenants safe and reduces the chance of expensive repairs.

Here’s what smart property owners should focus on this winter.

Inspect and Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Our region’s winter storms bring heavy rainfall, and clogged gutters can force water back toward the roofline. That moisture can lead to leaks, damaged siding, or foundation issues. Making sure gutters and downspouts are clear keeps water flowing away from the home and helps prevent long-term structural problems.

Service Heating Systems and Replace Filters

Winter is when heating systems work the hardest. A quick tune-up can reduce energy costs, improve air quality, and prevent emergency calls from tenants. Replace furnace filters, check the thermostat, and confirm the system is running efficiently. A well-maintained heating system is one of the best ways to prevent wintertime breakdowns.

Check Weatherproofing and Insulation

Cold air slipping in through worn weatherstripping or old insulation forces tenants to run the heat longer, driving up utilities and creating comfort issues. Inspect windows and doors for drafts, confirm that crawl spaces and attics are adequately insulated, and seal gaps where warm air may escape. A weather-tight home stays comfortable, reduces heating costs, and protects interior surfaces from moisture buildup.

Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

People spend more time indoors during winter, often using heat sources that place more strain on ventilation systems. Confirm that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and have fresh batteries. These basic safety checks protect tenants and keep your property compliant with Washington rental laws.

Protect Exterior Plumbing and Outdoor Areas

Freezing temperatures can damage outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, and exposed pipes. Insulate hose bibs, shut off exterior water lines where possible, and ensure hoses are disconnected and stored. Trim back branches near the roof or power lines, winter storms in the JBLM area are known to take down limbs, and proactive trimming reduces the risk of damage.

Inspect Roofs, Decks, and Walkways for Winter Hazards

Winter moisture can worsen existing roof damage, rot exterior wood, or create slippery surfaces. Make sure shingles are secure, flashing is tight, and walkways drain properly. Small fixes now can prevent leaks or tenant injuries later.

Review Your Property Management Plan and Emergency Procedures

Winter is a good time to review how you and your property manager handle emergency repairs, heating outages, plumbing issues, and storm-related damage. Confirm that tenants know how to reach the appropriate contacts and revisit your maintenance schedule and rental strategy for the coming year. A tight plan ensures fast response times and keeps your investment protected.

Final Tip: Proactive Winter Care Strengthens Your Property, and Your Tenant Relationships

Staying ahead of winter maintenance keeps rental homes in top condition, reduces the chance of costly emergencies, and helps create a positive experience for the people living in your property. Whether you're stationed nearby, relocating, or investing from out of state, consistent winter upkeep ensures your rental remains safe, efficient, and protected all season long.