Winter storms have been a growing concern for landlords in Austin, Texas. The 2024 State of Our Environment Report notes that as climate change worsens, Austin continues to experience more frequent extreme weather. Residents often recall Winter Storm Uri, the costliest natural disaster in history. In February of 2021, record amounts of snow and frigid temperatures left many Austinites without running water or heat, putting tenants’ health and safety at risk.
In Austin, landlords are legally responsible for maintaining a safe and livable rental property. Failing to provide essential services during winter storms means renters may be able to stop paying rent. For an Austin landlord, this can lead to unexpected financial stress if preparations aren’t in place.
Landlord Responsibilities During and After Winter Storms
Landlords in Austin, Texas must meet specific legal requirements to maintain their rental properties, especially during winter storms. Providing adequate heating is non-negotiable, as is running water and proper sanitation. Failing to prepare isn’t just risky, but costly.
Austin’s rapid growth means many rental properties are brand new, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe from issues like burst pipes. Putting in a bit of effort now can be the difference between being caught off guard and being prepared when the cold weather rolls in. To avoid legal and financial stress later, it’s important to start getting ready now.
Upholding Quality of Life Standards for Austin Tenants
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Preparing for winter storms is all about being proactive. Here’s how you can get ahead as an Austin landlord:
Get Annual HVAC Inspections: Schedule professional inspections of your heating system every year to make sure it’s working right. During winter storms, a broken heating system can lead to unhappy tenants and expensive emergency repairs. Consider investing in a more reliable and energy-efficient heating system, especially if your current one is outdated.
Insulate Pipes: Use pipe insulation or heat tape to protect pipes from freezing. Wrapping water heaters in an insulating blanket can keep them working well even during winter storms.
Have a Backup Plan: Having a backup generator on hand can make a big difference during power outages. They ensure tenants stay warm and safe, even if the grid fails.
Seal Windows and Doors: Inspect and replace old or worn stripping around doors and windows. Reseal any gaps to keep cold air out and maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Clean Gutters: Make sure gutters are clear of debris to prevent ice buildup that could cause leaks or water damage during winter storms.
While taking these steps may require upfront costs, they can save you money in the long run by reducing emergency expenses and protecting your rental income.
Insulation and Exterior Upgrades a Landlord Should Invest In
Austin winters may not always be the harshest, but the occasional winter storm can show weaknesses in your property’s insulation and exterior. Upgrading these areas can protect your rental property and help you save on long-term expenses:
Improve Insulation: Focus on the attic and any crawl spaces. Proper insulation keeps heat inside during cold weather and cuts energy bills year-round. This is especially important for a landlord who includes utilities in rent or has an older home.
Upgrade Windows and Doors: Drafty windows and poorly sealed doors can let in cold air, making heating systems work harder. Replacing these with energy-efficient options not only helps during winter storms but also improves the overall value of the rental property.
Prevent Frozen Pipes: Insulating pipes, particularly those in areas like garages or attics, can prevent them from freezing and bursting during extreme winter weather.
While these upgrades might cost a bit more upfront, they can save you money in the long run by helping you avoid emergency repairs.
Helping Tenants Get Ready for Winter Storms
Since you won’t be physically living in your rental property, you’ll need help from your tenants to keep it protected during winter storms. Communicating the following tips is key to helping them stay safe and happy during winter weather while also maintaining the property:
Start Early: When tenants first move in, share simple steps they can take during cold weather, like disconnecting outdoor hoses and keeping indoor faucets dripping to prevent pipes from freezing.
Send Reminders: As winter storms approach, send reminders to tenants so that they can prepare. This can include things like setting the thermostat to a minimum temperature or covering outdoor faucets.
Be Reachable: Make sure tenants know how to reach you or your property manager in case of an emergency, like a burst pipe or power outage.
When tenants are at home during the winter, it’s recommended they keep the thermostat set to 68 degrees. While away, 58 degrees is the recommended minimum. However, it’s important to consider the age and health of your tenants. For example, if you have elderly residents or those with health problems living in your rental property, setting the temperature a bit higher can be a must. Being proactive in communicating these steps can prevent rental property damage and help your tenants feel supported.
Stay Ahead of the Cold with an Austin Property Manager
Being a landlord in Austin, Texas can be challenging because of the unpredictable weather. You never know when winter storms might strike, meaning you want to be ready for anything. Hiring a property manager like Evernest can help you stay on top of maintenance and communication with tenants, keeping everyone happy.
They can schedule regular HVAC and plumbing inspections to keep your rental property winter-ready and send out reminders to residents before winter storms. If damage does occur, they’ll coordinate with trusted contractors to get repairs done quickly, keeping tenants satisfied and your passive income secure. Winters in Austin may be short-lived, but preparation lasts all year.
