As the temperature starts to drop and cold weather settles in, property managers in Chicago are starting to winterize their units and protect their properties against storm damage and extreme cold. From insulation checks to plumbing protection, a little preparation can go a long way.

Here’s how to keep your property safe for tenants and prevent costly damage with these top 10 ETI tips:

1. Insulate Pipes
To avoid any frozen or burst pipes this season, insulate those located in unheated areas like basements, attics and exterior walls. Use pipe insulation foam sleeves or wraps for optimal protection. If a pipe does freeze, it’s best to call a professional to assess the situation, as improper thawing can result in additional damage.

2. Inspect Building Systems
Even if your heating systems are working well today, it’s important to prioritize preventative maintenance to ensure proper functioning throughout the winter months. Schedule an inspection and cleaning of boilers, furnaces and HVAC units to reduce the risk of unexpected issues. It can also improve energy efficiency and extend the life span of the unit as well. Remember, in the event of a breakdown during peak winter months, securing an emergency appointment could take days, leaving your tenants without heat and potentially causing significant damage to your property. By addressing potential problems before they escalate, you can save money and keep your tenants comfortable all winter long.

3. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Keep gutters and downspouts free of any leaves, twigs and other debris to prevent clogs. These clogs can create overflow and ice dams, which can damage the property’s foundation, walls and landscaping. Gutter guards can help minimize the risk of ice dams and take frequent cleaning off your to-do list.

4. Blow Out Irrigation Systems
As temperatures in Chicago drop, be sure to blow out sprinkler systems when temperatures are above freezing. If water inside buried hoses and pipes freezes, it can cause them to expand and crack. Rigid PVC pipes are especially vulnerable, often bursting entirely, while flexible polyethylene pipes may develop slow leaks. To prevent this, blow out the system using compressed air and make sure all water is drained from the pipes.

5. Trim Trees
Trim branches and remove dead or diseased trees that overhang buildings, power lines and walkways to prevent damage from falling limbs, particularly during winter storms, when snow and ice can cause branches and trees to snap or fall. It’s also important to inspect the root systems of trees near your property or underground utilities to identify potential risks to foundations and infrastructure.

6. Plan for Snow Removal
Chicago receives an average of 2.5 feet of snow during the winter months each year. This makes it essential to coordinate with a reliable snow removal service in advance to clear sidewalks, steps and parking areas for tenants. Snow removal should be addressed early and often to ensure that access to and from the building is safe and unobstructed. This is particularly important for emergency situations, as clear paths are essential for first responders and for tenants to get to and from work or other essential destinations during winter storms.

We also recommend stocking up on deicing chemicals, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. For example, calcium chloride melts ice quickly but can be corrosive to metal, while magnesium chloride is a safer, less corrosive alternative. Potassium chloride is a pet-friendly option, though it’s less effective in extreme cold, and rock salt is a budget-friendly choice, but it can corrode metal surfaces and is less effective at low temperatures.

Lastly, keep an eye on snow and ice on roofs, especially flat roofs or those with low peaks, as they are more prone to ice dams. These can cause water to back up under shingles, leading to leaks, structural damage and even roof collapse if not addressed properly.

7. Prevent Water Damage
Check your roof for any missing or damaged shingles and inspect the foundation and basement walls for any cracks—sealing them now will help prevent water from getting in and causing problems later. Also, consider flushing your water heater to clear out sediment buildup, which can improve efficiency and help avoid costly repairs down the road.

8. Replace Old Weather Stripping
Worn or damaged weather stripping around doors and windows should be replaced—those brisk Chicago winds can easily find their way inside if they’re not sealed properly. Plus, a solid seal will prevent water from entering as well.

9. Fire Safety Tips
Focusing on safety inside your home during the winter months is just as important as preparing for the cold weather outside. Here are some key fire safety tips to keep in mind:

• Schedule a professional chimney cleaning to remove creosote buildup and reduce fire risk.
• Test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Use space heaters safely, keeping them away from flammable materials and ensuring proper ventilation.
• Be cautious with candles and holiday decorations and avoid overloading electrical outlets.

10. Energy-Efficient Upgrades
If you’re considering replacing building systems or making major upgrades, energy-efficient solutions come with a host of advantages, including lower energy bills, potential tax incentives and improved sustainability. Replacing outdated heating and cooling systems or upgrading insulation and windows can provide energy-efficient long-term savings while improving comfort and efficiency within your building.

Before the weather turns too cold and service lines get backed up with requests, keep these top 10 tips in mind as you prepare your multifamily property for winter in Chicago.

Please contact our team with any questions on winterizing your property or for a quote on an upcoming project. We’re here to help.