Cold Winter Weather: What Tenants Need to Know
Winter Care Tips for Apartments, Condominiums, and Single-Family Homes
Canadian winters are not just cold—they can be hard on buildings. Extended sub-zero temperatures, snow accumulation, ice buildup, and rapid freeze-thaw cycles all increase the risk of damage if properties aren’t properly cared for. While property managers and owners handle many winter responsibilities, tenants play an important role in protecting the home they live in.
Here are key winter care reminders, with important differences between apartment/condominium living and single-family homes (including duplexes and townhouses).
Why Winter Awareness Matters
Winter-related damage is often sudden and costly. Frozen pipes, heating failures, water leaks, ice dams, and ventilation issues can escalate quickly—sometimes within hours. Early action and good communication are essential to preventing damage, displacement, and unnecessary insurance claims.
Apartment & Condominium Living: What Tenants Should Know
In apartments and condominiums, many building systems are shared. This means one issue can impact multiple homes.
Heating & Temperature
Keep your unit heated at all times, even if you’re away.
Do not turn heat off completely—this increases the risk of frozen pipes.
If your unit feels colder than normal, notify management immediately.
Ventilation & Moisture Control
Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to reduce moisture.
Avoid drying large amounts of clothing indoors without ventilation.
Condensation on windows is common, but excessive moisture or frost buildup should be reported.
Windows, Doors & Balconies
Keep balcony drains clear of snow and ice where applicable.
Do not block heating vents or radiators with furniture or curtains.
Report drafts, damaged seals, or water intrusion promptly.
Maintenance Reporting
Even minor leaks, unusual noises, or temperature changes should be reported early.
Delayed reporting can affect neighboring units and lead to more extensive repairs.
Single-Family Homes, Duplexes & Townhouses: Additional Responsibilities
Tenants in single-family properties typically have more direct exposure to winter risks and may be responsible for day-to-day upkeep depending on lease terms.
Snow & Ice Management
Clear snow from walkways, steps, and entrances as required.
Ice buildup should be addressed promptly to reduce slip hazards.
Avoid piling snow against siding, doors, or vents.
Plumbing Awareness
Keep heat on throughout the home, including basements.
Open cabinet doors under sinks during extreme cold to allow warm air circulation.
If a pipe appears frozen or water pressure drops suddenly, notify management immediately.
Exterior Vents & Utilities
Ensure furnace, dryer, and bathroom vents remain clear of snow.
Never block gas meters or exhaust vents.
Report icicles, ice dams, or roof drainage issues if observed.
Extended Absences
Notify management if you will be away during extreme cold.
Ensure someone is available to check the property if required.
What Tenants Should Never Do
Ignore leaks, drafts, or heating issues.
Use unauthorized space heaters.
Tamper with building systems or shut off heat entirely.
Delay reporting problems because they “seem minor.”
In winter, small issues can become major ones very quickly.
Our Commitment as Property Managers
Professional property management during winter is about prevention, responsiveness, and communication. We monitor weather conditions, coordinate vendors, and respond to maintenance concerns as quickly as possible—but timely tenant reporting is a critical part of protecting the property.
Final Thoughts
Winter is a shared responsibility. Whether you live in an apartment, condominium, duplex, townhouse, or single-family home, staying informed and proactive helps protect your comfort, safety, and the long-term condition of the property.
If you ever have questions or concerns during cold weather, reach out early. It’s always better to address an issue before winter does it for you. ❄️🏠
