Get Ready for Winter: Preparing Your Home for Inclement Winter Weather

Alina Spaulding • July 6, 2025

As winter approaches, it’s time to make sure your home is ready for whatever the season brings. Whether you’re new to North Carolina winters or a seasoned pro, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping you safe, warm, and comfortable. Here’s how you can get your single-family rental home winter-ready—and avoid some of the most common cold-weather headaches.



Seal Out the Cold

Drafts can sneak in through windows and doors, making your heating system work overtime and your energy bills climb. Walk around your home and see if you feel any chilly air coming in. If you do, let us know! In the meantime, you can use simple draft stoppers, rolled towels, or temporary weatherstripping to block those gaps. Don’t forget to close curtains at night for an extra layer of insulation.



Take Care of Your Heating System

The last thing you want is to discover your heat isn’t working on the coldest night of the year. Turn your heat on now, even if just for a few minutes, to make sure everything is running smoothly. If you notice any strange noises or if it doesn’t heat up, contact us right away so we can address the issue before temperatures drop. Remember to keep your thermostat set at 55°F or higher—even if you’re away—to help prevent frozen pipes.



Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes are a winter nightmare, but they’re easy to prevent. On especially cold nights, let your faucets drip just a little to keep water moving. Open the cabinet doors under your sinks so warm air can circulate around the pipes. If you have outdoor faucets, make sure the hoses are disconnected and the faucets are covered or insulated.



Prepare for Power Outages and Emergencies

Winter storms can sometimes knock out power. It’s smart to have a few essentials on hand: flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and blankets. If you rely on electricity for heat, consider how you’ll stay warm if the power goes out. And always, always use space heaters safely—keep them away from curtains and never leave them running unattended.



Safety First

This is also a great time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Press the test button to make sure they’re working, and let us know if you need new batteries or replacements. Never use your oven or grill to heat your home—this is extremely dangerous and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.



Stay Connected

Keep your phone charged and have our contact information handy in case you need to report a maintenance emergency. If you notice anything unusual—like water leaks, broken windows, or a heating issue—don’t wait. Let us know right away so we can help.



Winter Weather Preparation Checklist

  •  Check and seal drafts around windows and doors
  •  Test your heating system and thermostat
  •  Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher
  •  Let faucets drip and open cabinet doors during freezing temps
  •  Disconnect hoses and cover outdoor faucets
  •  Clean gutters if it’s your responsibility
  •  Stock up on flashlights, batteries, water, and non-perishable food
  •  Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  •  Use space heaters safely
  •  Keep our emergency contact info handy
  •  Report any maintenance concerns promptly

A little preparation now can save you a lot of trouble later. If you have questions about your responsibilities or need help getting your home ready for winter, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to make sure you stay warm, safe, and comfortable all season long!


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