How every landlord can enjoy a smooth, stress-free summer
Summer in Winnipeg means long days, warm nights—and the perfect opportunity to stay ahead of rental property maintenance. While it’s tempting to sit back and enjoy the season, a few smart home maintenance checklist and updates now can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your investment and keeping tenants happy.
At Canopy Mgmt, we know that a little proactive care goes a long way. Regular seasonal maintenance helps avoid emergency repairs, reduces long-term costs, and makes sure your property remains a safe, comfortable place to live. Plus, it gives landlords peace of mind heading into the busier months ahead.
We’ve put together a practical home maintenance checklist to help you keep your rental property running smoothly through the summer—saving you time, stress, and unexpected expenses down the road.
1) Inspect the roof and gutters
After a long winter and rainy spring, summer is the perfect time to give your rental property’s roof and gutters a thorough inspection. Small issues can quickly turn into costly repairs if they’re not caught early.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Check for damaged or missing shingles: Even a few loose shingles can lead to water leaks during summer storms.
- Clear gutters and downspouts: Remove any leaves, twigs, or debris that could block drainage and cause water to pool around the foundation.
- Look for signs of sagging or cracks: Heavy snow, ice, and storms can damage gutters, leading to hidden water damage.
Keeping the roof and gutters in good condition is a simple but powerful way to prevent leaks, dampness, and structural issues—saving landlords from major headaches later on.
2) Service the HVAC system
Summer heat puts extra pressure on cooling systems, and no tenant wants to deal with an air conditioner breakdown when temperatures climb. A quick service now can prevent bigger problems later—and show tenants that you care about their comfort.
Important steps to keep HVAC systems running efficiently:
- Schedule a professional inspection: A qualified technician can spot worn parts, low refrigerant levels, and other hidden issues before they cause a full system failure.
- Replace or clean air filters: Dirty filters make cooling systems work harder, driving up energy costs and reducing air quality.
- Test the system: Make sure the air conditioning runs smoothly and that vents are delivering consistent airflow throughout the property.
Keeping up to date with home maintenance services for your HVAC system helps extend its lifespan, keeps energy bills lower, and creates a more comfortable living environment for your tenants.
3) Check outdoor areas and landscaping
First impressions matter, always—and summer is when outdoor spaces really set the tone for your rental property. A little attention to landscaping and exterior upkeep can boost curb appeal, prevent accidents, and make tenants feel proud of where they live.
Main areas to focus on:
- Trim trees, hedges, and overgrown plants: Keep walkways clear and prevent branches from damaging roofs or siding during summer storms.
- Inspect fences, gates, and pathways: Repair any loose boards, wobbly posts, or cracked paving stones to keep outdoor spaces safe and inviting.
- Refresh gardens or lawns: Add fresh mulch, reseed bare patches of grass, or clean up any debris left over from winter and spring.
Regular upkeep of outdoor areas isn’t just cosmetic—it’s a smart part of property maintenance that protects your investment and makes tenants feel more at home.
4) Inspect plumbing and outdoor faucets
Summer is an ideal time to spot plumbing issues before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems. After the freeze-thaw cycles of winter, small leaks and cracks can easily go unnoticed if not checked early.
Here’s what landlords should look for:
- Test outdoor taps and hoses: Run water through any outdoor faucets to check for leaks, low pressure, or cracks caused by freezing temperatures.
- Inspect indoor plumbing: Look under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters for signs of moisture, slow leaks, or corrosion.
- Clear outdoor drains: Make sure gutters, patio drains, and exterior water systems are free from debris to avoid water pooling near the foundation.
Keeping a close eye on plumbing systems helps prevent major water damage and guarantees that everything flows smoothly through the summer months—a small step that can save major costs later.
5) Update safety and compliance checks
Summer is the perfect time to make sure your rental property meets all the necessary safety standards. Not only does it protect your tenants, but it also safeguards you as a landlord against potential legal issues.
Key safety checks to complete:
- Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors: Double-check every unit has working alarms, with fresh batteries if needed.
- Review your Gas Safety Certificate: Confirm that inspections are up to date and compliant with local regulations.
- Check emergency exits and lighting: Make sure pathways are clear and any external lighting is functional for added security.
- Update your property records: Keep documentation organized for inspections, maintenance, and insurance purposes.
Staying ahead on safety and compliance is a vital part of responsible landlord property management. A few simple checks now can help avoid larger problems—and reassure your tenants that their home is well looked after.
Let’s keep your rental property summer-ready
Taking a proactive approach to home maintenance during the summer months protects your property and helps avoid costly surprises down the road. A few simple seasonal checks—from clearing gutters to servicing cooling systems, can make a huge difference in keeping your investment running smoothly.
At Canopy Mgmt, we understand that great property maintenance isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s about preventing them. Our team is here to help Winnipeg landlords protect their properties with expert home maintenance services and full property maintenance support.
If you’re ready to take the stress out of seasonal maintenance, learn more about how our property maintenance services can help and keep your property in top shape year-round.
