The Annual Rental Property Maintenance Checklist

The cheapest repair is the one you prevent. A predictable seasonal rhythm keeps small issues from becoming insurance claims — here’s the calendar we run for managed properties in the Capital Region.

Spring

• Inspect the roof and flashing after winter; check ceilings for new stains
• Clean gutters and confirm downspouts drain away from the foundation
• Service the AC or window units before the first heat wave
• Check exterior paint, caulk, and masonry; schedule summer repairs early
• Test sump pumps before spring rains

Summer

• Landscaping and tree limbs — keep growth off the roof and siding
• Inspect decks, porches, and railings; tighten and treat as needed
• Check window screens and weep holes
• Good season for interior painting and unit turnovers

Fall — the big one in upstate New York

• Furnace/boiler professional service before the first cold snap (no-heat calls in January are emergencies; October tune-ups are appointments)
• Bleed radiators, test thermostats
• Clean gutters again after leaf drop
• Shut off and drain exterior faucets; insulate exposed pipes
• Check weatherstripping and storm windows — drafts are tenant complaints waiting to happen

Winter

• Confirm heat is adequate in all units (New York requires minimum temperatures during heating season)
• Watch for ice dams — they signal heat escaping into the attic
• Keep walkways clear and salted; slip-and-falls are the most common winter liability

Year-round, every visit

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (required by law)
• Glance under sinks and around the water heater
• Note anything tenants mention — small comments often flag big issues early

A property manager bundles this into the service: scheduled vendors, documented inspections, and a maintenance history for every unit.