When the weather turns warm, it is a great time to plan for a “spring cleaning” around your residence. Take the time to clean out from winter and review any necessary maintenance. Here is a list of steps you can take to chase away winter and brighten your home.

• Test your smoke alarm – another important safety item. If necessary, replace the batteries and if the smoke detector still does not work, contact us immediately.
• It is time to trim lawns and weed flowerbeds, as well as clearing out any winter debris – dead leaves, animal droppings, trash, or any other items that are unsightly.
• It is particularly important to remove any debris away from the immediate exterior of your residence to promote fire safety during the hotter months of the year.
• If you still have not taken down holiday lights and decorations, do so now and store properly.
• If your rental contract indicates you are not responsible for gardening, it is still important to report any lack of maintenance to us so that we can assist you.
• Adjust sprinklers according to weather conditions for hotter summer weather. If you have difficulty with your sprinklers, contact us for help.
• Be sure to keep shrubs trimmed to clear walkways and prevent accidents.
• Report any problems with trees roots immediately.
• Watch gutters for clogging, overflow, and poor drainage. If you need assistance, notify us.
• Avoid letting water accumulate in pots or containers, such as animal dishes – this can lead to problems with mosquitoes and other pests.
• If water accumulates, and will not drain either inside or outside, notify us immediately.
• Dispose of any toxic waste properly, such as motor oil, batteries, etc. Do not put toxic waste in garbage receptacles.
• Clean your garbage can, and at all times, keep the lid secure to avoid unwanted pests or animals. Then, always store your garbage receptacle properly.
• Keep any receptacles for pet food or water clean to avoid attracting unwanted pets or animals as well.
• Clean your windows both inside and out. Wipe the inside and outside of doors.
• Clean door and window tracks so that they keep working properly. Report any maintenance needed for locks or operation. This is important for your safety.
• Check all outside lights for proper operation. If after replacing a light bulb, the light still does not work, request a maintenance order.
• If you have air conditioning in your home, turn it on to see if it operates properly and if not, report it before hot weather arrives.
• Replace all air-conditioning and furnace filters. Clogged filters will only prevent the unit from working properly and can increase your energy bill.

Besides giving you a happier “spring” outlook, keeping your home clean and orderly, inside and out, is a responsibility outlined in your rental agreement and important to maintaining a good rental history. If you have any maintenance questions or concerns, please free to contact us, we are here to help you.