Preparing for Winter: Maintenance Tips for RI Rentals

The days are getting shorter and the temperature is getting colding. Are you prepared for another winter in Rhode Island? Along with protecting your investment, preventative maintenance builds trust with tenants and minimizes costly emergency calls in the middle of a snowstorm.

At The Hennessy Group, our property management team in RI helps owners prepare their rental properties each fall to ensure smooth sailing through the colder months. Here’s what we’ve learned (and what we’ve seen go wrong) from years of hands-on experience.

1. Don’t Wait, Winterize Early

Rhode Island weather can change fast. We once had a landlord in Warwick who planned to “get to it next weekend” until a sudden November cold snap froze the pipes in an uninsulated basement. The resulting Property Management Emergency Repairs in Rhode Island cost thousands, not to mention upset tenants and disrupted rent payments.

Quick Tips:

• Drain outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems.

• Insulate exposed pipes and basement areas.

• Schedule furnace inspections by mid-October.

2. Inspect Roofs, Gutters, and Attics

A tenant in one of our Providence multi-families reported ceiling stains after heavy snow. After further inspections, we found ice dams caused by poor attic insulation and clogged gutters. A quick preseason gutter clean and insulation check could have saved the owner $1,200 in roof repairs.

What to Check:

• Clear leaves and debris from gutters.

• Inspect shingles and flashing for damage.

• Ensure attic insulation is even and vents are unobstructed.

Regular inspections are a core part of our property management in RI. Fixing small issues now prevents major expenses later.

3. Test Heating Systems and Detectors

Every fall, we make sure our tenants’ heating systems, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide alarms are in top shape. Rhode Island’s older buildings often hide aging boilers or outdated baseboard units that need attention.

A reliable local property manager in Rhode Island will coordinate licensed HVAC inspections and replace filters so tenants stay safe and warm all winter long.

Pro Tip: Include heating system maintenance clauses in your Rental Agreements in Rhode Island. This protects both you and the tenant from disputes over responsibility.

4. Keep Communication Clear for Tenant Maintenance Requests

Winter brings an uptick in Tenant Maintenance Requests, from drafty windows to malfunctioning heaters. Having an easy, digital reporting system prevents minor issues from turning into major emergencies.

One of our Newport tenants recently submitted a maintenance request for a leaking window. Because our system flagged it immediately, the repair was handled within 24 hours, preventing water damage and frustration.

5. Prepare for Snow Removal and Access

Slippery walkways are a liability nightmare. Rhode Island landlords are responsible for keeping paths safe and clear, depending on lease terms and local ordinances.

At The Hennessy Group, we outline snow removal responsibilities in every lease and coordinate contractors for shared properties. For condo association property management clients, we often collaborate with boards to ensure plowing schedules are communicated to residents.

If you’re unsure who’s responsible, review your property management FAQ or consult a professional to clarify before the first storm hits.

6. Plan for Delays and Late Payments

Even well screened tenants can experience delays during the holidays or weather-related income interruptions. Clear communication and consistent policies around Rhode Island Late Rent help maintain positive relationships without financial surprises.

Landlords Common Questions often include: “Should I waive late fees if a tenant can’t get to work due to snow?” The answer depends on your lease terms and judgment. Discussing winter maintenance tips for RI rentals can help resolve these issues before they occur.

7. Partner With Professionals Who Know Rhode Island

Winter is when having a property management company in Rhode Island really pays off. Local expertise means faster contractor response times and proactive planning before the weather hits.

Our team once stepped in for an out-of-state owner whose tenants lost heat during a blizzard. Because we had trusted local vendors on call, the repair was made within hours. 

8. Bonus: Coordinate With Your HOA or Condo Association

If your rental is part of a shared building, ensure your HOA or condo association is also prepared.

Pro Tip: Schedule a quick check-in with your board or management company before the first freeze to review responsibilities and emergency contact protocols.

Final Thoughts on Winter Maintenance Tips for RI Rentals

Winter preparation helps protect your investment, maintain good tenant relationships, and avoid preventable emergencies.

If you self-manage or partner with a property management company in Rhode Island, make sure your properties are winter-ready before the first frost.

Need help winterizing your rentals or managing maintenance requests this season?Contact The Hennessy Group, your trusted local property manager in Rhode Island, to prepare your rentals for the cold months ahead. Contact us at 401.736.8300 , info@thehennessygrp.com, or through our website.