Chicago Home & Property Winterization Guide

How to Winterize Your Chicago Home or Property 

Chicago winters can take a toll on any property. Whether you own a single-family home, live in a condo, manage a rental property, or oversee a multifamily building, preparing before Chicago’s freezing temperatures arrive can help prevent costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and keep your property safe throughout the winter.

From protecting pipes and servicing heating systems to checking roofs, gutters, windows, and exterior areas, PRG Management’s fall winterization checklist covers the essential steps Chicago property owners and residents should take before winter arrives.

Chicago Home & Property Winterization Checklist

When Should You Winterize Your Property in Chicago?

Fall is the best time to winterize your Chicago home or property, before consistently freezing temperatures and snowfall arrive. Completing preventative maintenance early gives you time to inspect building systems, make repairs, and address potential problems while conditions are still manageable.

Waiting until the first major freeze or snowfall makes routine maintenance more difficult and increases your risk of frozen pipes, heating problems, leaks, and other easily preventable winter damage.

1. Inspect & Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors let heated air escape and cold air in, making it harder and more expensive to keep a property comfortable. Be sure to inspect windows and exterior doors for visible gaps, damaged seals, or deteriorated caulk. Weatherstripping, caulk, and other air-sealing measures can help reduce drafts and improve energy efficiency throughout the winter months.

For multifamily properties, don't forget common-area doors, stairwells, basement entrances, and other shared/common area spaces that may also let cold air into the building.

2. Service Your Furnace & Heating System

Your heating system will be working overtime during a Chicago winter, so don't wait until temperatures plummet to find out something isn't working properly. Schedule routine maintenance for furnaces, boilers, and other heating/HVAC equipment as needed. Replace dirty furnace filters, check thermostats, and make sure vents and radiators aren't obstructed.

For apartment and multifamily buildings, property owners and managers should also verify that heating systems serving common areas and individual units are functioning properly and have a plan for responding to heating problems during extreme cold.

3. Protect Pipes From Freezing

Frozen pipes can quickly turn into an expensive winter emergency. Pay particular attention to plumbing in basements, crawl spaces, garages, exterior walls, and other areas that receive less heat. Insulate vulnerable pipes where appropriate and seal nearby gaps that allow cold air to reach plumbing. Property owners and residents should also know where the main water shutoff is located so to stop it quickly if a pipe bursts.

During periods of extreme cold, maintaining adequate indoor temperatures is especially important, including in vacant units and properties. During freezes, you may also consider letting faucets drip as an extra precaution.

4. Winterize Outdoor Faucets & Plumbing

Before freezing temperatures arrive, disconnect and drain garden hoses and properly winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems where applicable. Bring in any furniture, decorations, or fixtures that will be damaged by the cold and snow.

If the property has a dedicated shutoff for an exterior water line, it should be shut off and drained for the season, as exterior plumbing can be particularly vulnerable during prolonged periods of below-freezing temperatures.

5. Clean Gutters & Check Drainage

Leaves and debris can prevent gutters and downspouts from draining properly. Once temperatures fall, trapped water can freeze and contribute to ice buildup or drainage problems.

Clear any gutters before winter and inspect downspouts to ensure water is flowing away from the building. Look for loose gutters, damaged connections, and drainage areas that may need attention before snow and ice arrive.

6. Inspect Your Roof, Attic & Insulation

Winter weather can make existing roofing problems significantly worse if not addressed. Before the season begins, look for damaged or missing shingles, deteriorated flashing, visible leaks, hail damage, and other signs that repairs may be needed. Be sure to check attics for signs of moisture, air leaks, or inadequate insulation. Proper air sealing and insulation will help retain more heat and improve the building’s overall energy efficiency.

For larger multifamily and condo buildings, roof inspections and repairs will typically need to be coordinated by the property owner, association, or management company well in advance of the winter season.

7. Test Sump Pumps & Backup Systems

Snowmelt and winter precipitation can still create basement and drainage problems. If your property has a sump pump, test it before winter and make sure the pit and discharge system are functioning properly.

Properties with battery backup systems should also have those systems checked so they're ready if a winter storm causes a power outage.

8. Check Chimneys, Vents & Gas Equipment

Don't neglect maintenance on fireplaces, chimneys, furnaces, water heaters, and other fuel-burning equipment that should be properly maintained and vented before increased winter use. You don’t want to discover a heating problem after weather changes. If you do experience heating issues, never use a stove or oven as a substitute for a functioning heating system.

Check that vents and flues are unobstructed, and have equipment professionally inspected when necessary. During winter, keep exterior appliance vents and natural gas meters clear of accumulated snow and ice.

9. Prepare Exterior Areas for Snow & Ice

Winterizing a property isn't limited to what's inside the building. Inspect exterior stairs, railings, sidewalks, entryways, parking areas, and other surfaces before snow makes repairs more difficult. Make sure snow shovels, ice melt, and other supplies are available ahead of time. 

Rental and multifamily property owners should also establish a plan with vendors for snow and ice removal so sidewalks, entrances, and common areas can be cleared throughout the season.

Fall is also a good time to inspect exterior caulk, siding, masonry, and other building materials for signs of deterioration that could worsen during repeated freezing and thawing.

10. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, and other heating equipment experience increased use, Fall is a good time to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries or devices. Be sure to keep areas around furnaces and water heaters clear. For rental and multifamily properties, owners and property managers should make sure residents understand basic heating and carbon monoxide safety.

11. Prepare for Winter Emergencies

Even a well-maintained property can experience problems during extreme winter weather, especially in Chicagoland. A little preparation can make an emergency much easier to manage. Know where the main water shutoff and electrical panel are located, keep emergency contact information readily available, and make sure flashlights, candles, and other basic supplies are accessible.

Rental property owners and managers should have established procedures for after-hours heating failures, burst pipes, snow removal, and other winter maintenance emergencies.

Winterizing Condos & Apartments

Condo owners and apartment residents may not be responsible for every part of their building, but still have several key steps to prepare for winter. Check windows and doors for drafts, keep heating vents and radiators unobstructed, and maintain appropriate indoor temperatures. Report any leaks, heating problems, damaged windows, or other maintenance concerns immediately.

Condo owners should also understand which winter maintenance responsibilities belong to the individual unit owner and the association. Roof repairs, common plumbing, exterior walls, shared heating equipment, sidewalks, and other common elements may be building or association-level responsibilities. If you are unsure, confirm with your management company or board before winter.

Winterizing Rental & Multifamily Properties

Beyond the standard winterization checklist, landlords and property managers should pay extra attention to vacant units, common areas, building mechanical systems, resident communication, and emergency maintenance procedures. Before winter, inspect vacant units and confirm that they maintain adequate heat. Check common-area doors and windows, inspect shared mechanical systems, and make sure residents know how to report a heating failure, frozen pipe, leak, or other urgent maintenance issue.

For larger properties, establishing snow removal, vendor, and emergency response plans ahead of time can help prevent small maintenance issues from becoming larger and more expensive problems and keep your property compliant with Chicago snow/ice ordinances.

Quick Winterization Checklist

Before Chicago winter weather arrives:

• Inspect and seal windows and exterior doors

• Service furnaces, boilers, and heating systems

• Replace furnace filters

• Insulate vulnerable plumbing

• Locate the main water shutoff

• Disconnect garden hoses and winterize exterior faucets

• Clean gutters and downspouts

• Inspect roofs and attic areas

• Check insulation and air sealing

• Test sump pumps and backup systems

• Inspect chimneys, flues, and exterior vents

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Prepare snow and ice removal supplies

• Inspect sidewalks, stairs, and exterior common areas

• Check vacant units and properties

• Confirm any emergency maintenance procedures and contacts

Prepare Your Chicago Property for Winter

Winterizing your Chicago property may feel like just an annoying task to cross off your to-do list, but it’s a crucial process to protect your home and investment. With the proper planning, your property will be ready to withstand even the harshest winter weather. 

As you prepare for winter, refer to PRG Management's Chicago Home & Property Winterization Guide to make sure you haven’t missed any steps. Our winterization guide will help you improve energy efficiency while keeping your family safe and comfortable throughout the winter season. Whether you're a homeowner or renter, taking proactive measures now will save you time, money, and stress once the snow starts to fall.

Owners and investors looking for support with winterization, preventative maintenance, leasing, tenant management, and day-to-day property operations can rely on our Chicago property management team. Contact PRG Management or fill out the form below to request a management proposal.

Chicago Spring Property Maintenance Checklist: 2026 Update

2026 Spring Property Maintenance Checklist for Chicago Landlords and Property Owners

Chicago winters are hard on buildings. By the time Spring arrives, your property has endured months of freeze-thaw cycles, salt, ice, and temperature swings that stress everything from your roof to your foundation. As a property owner in Chicagoland, you need to know what items need to be evaluated every season. That’s why PRG Management compiled a Spring cleaning checklist with Chicago property management tips to help you protect your property.

A regular Chicago rental property maintenance checklist should assess the damage, address deferred maintenance, and get ahead of any issues before they become expensive repairs. Whether you manage one unit, a portfolio of properties, or live in an HOA community, this checklist covers what to inspect, expect, service, and schedule every Spring in Chicagoland.

Exterior and Structural

Chicago's freeze-thaw cycles are among the most damaging weather patterns for residential and rental properties. A thorough exterior inspection every Spring is the single most effective way to catch structural issues before they compound into major capital expenses. Make sure your Spring property maintenance checklist includes:

• Inspect the roof for missing, cracked, or lifted shingles and any signs of winter damage around flashing and gutters

• Clean and inspect gutters and downspouts, clear debris, and confirm water is draining away from the foundation

• Check the foundation for new cracks, settling, or signs of water intrusion after the thaw

• Inspect exterior siding, brick, and masonry for cracks, spalling, or damage from freeze-thaw cycles

• Examine caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors, and replace them anywhere seals have deteriorated

• Assess the driveway, walkways, and parking areas for frost heave, cracks, or trip hazards

• Inspect decks, porches, and balconies for loose boards, deteriorating railings, or structural concerns

Landscaping and Grounds

First impressions matter for leasing efforts, tenant retention, and overall property value. Chicago landlords and property owners should know that well-maintained grounds also reduce liability exposure from uneven walkways or overgrown trees. These actions both protect your legal exposure and increase the curb appeal of your property:

• Remove winter debris, salt, sand, dead branches, and accumulated debris from common areas and landscaping beds

• Inspect trees and shrubs for winter damage and schedule trimming for any branches near the building or power lines

• Restart irrigation systems and inspect for leaks, broken heads, or damaged lines from the freeze

• Refresh mulch in landscaping beds to retain moisture and prevent weed growth through the season

• Inspect and repair fencing for any panels, posts, or hardware damaged over winter

HVAC and Mechanical Systems

In Chicago property management, mechanical system failures are one of the most common and preventable maintenance expenses. Servicing HVAC and mechanical systems each Spring extends the equipment life, keeps utility costs down, and ensures your property stays compliant with Chicago's rental habitability requirements. To “un-winterize” your property, be sure to:

• Schedule air conditioning service before peak cooling season, replace filters, clean coils, and confirm refrigerant levels

• Test the HVAC system in cooling mode and address any unusual sounds, airflow issues, or performance concerns

• Inspect laundry machines and clean dryer vents, a common fire hazard that's easy to overlook

• Check water heater operation and inspect for corrosion, leaks, or sediment buildup

• Test sump pump operation before the Spring rain season, confirm the float switch activates, and the discharge line is clear

Interior and Unit Condition

For occupied rental units, Spring is the ideal time to conduct an interior walkthrough as part of regular Chicago property maintenance. Catching small issues early, such as a slow leak, a drafty window, or a deteriorating seal, protects both the property and the landlord-tenant relationship. Your Spring property upkeep checklist should remind you to:

• Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries, required under Chicago's municipal code

• Inspect windows and doors for drafts, damaged locks, or hardware that needs adjustment after winter settling

• Check for water stains on ceilings and walls that may indicate a slow roof leak or plumbing issue that worsened over winter

• Inspect plumbing under sinks and around appliances for slow leaks or signs of moisture damage

• Test GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and any exterior outlets

Safety and Compliance

Safety and compliance items are easy to defer until something goes wrong. Chicago landlords are subject to specific safety and maintenance requirements under the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO). Staying current on unit specific and common area safety equipment, lighting, and access hardware will protect you from any legal issues. A proper spring property maintenance checklist will have you:

• Review fire extinguisher service dates and replace or recharge any that have expired

• Inspect common area lighting, exterior fixtures, stairwells, and parking areas, and replace any burned out or damaged fixtures

• Confirm that unit entry locks and building access hardware are functioning properly

• Review your insurance policy and confirm coverage is current and adequate for the property

A Note for Chicago Landlords

If you manage multiple properties or simply don't have the bandwidth to coordinate vendors and track maintenance schedules yourself, a full-service Chicago property management company handles this for you, proactively and on a defined schedule.

At PRG Management, seasonal maintenance coordination is a core part of how we protect our owners' investments. We work with a vetted network of trusted vendors to ensure both preventative maintenance and emergency issues are handled promptly. If you're a Chicago landlord, property owner, or HOA board member looking for a more hands-off approach to property ownership, we'd love to connect.

Request a proposal or fill out the form below to connect with a Chicago property manager.

PRG Management in an award winning property management company in Chicago, providing full-service property management for individual landlords, multi-unit owners, and investment property portfolios across the great Chicagoland area.

Chicago Heat Ordinance: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

Chicago winters are long and unforgiving, which is why the city enforces strict heating requirements through the Chicago Heat Ordinance. This law protects residents from unsafe living conditions while holding landlords accountable for maintaining adequate heat. Both landlords and tenants benefit from understanding the rules: landlords avoid steep fines and disputes, while tenants know their rights and what to do if those rights aren’t met.

What Landlords Need to Know

If you own or manage property in Chicago, compliance with the Chicago Heat Ordinance is non-negotiable. The Chicago Heat Ordinance rules set forth are clear:

• Heat season: lasts from September 15 until June 1.

• Daytime requirement (8:30 am – 10:30 pm): At least 68°F

• Overnight requirement (10:30 pm – 8:30 am): At least 66°F

• Habitable Spaces: in houses, apartments, hotel rooms, and indoor workspaces, heat be provided in all habitable spaces, toilet rooms, and bathrooms

• How to Provide Heat: Use permanent systems such as boilers, furnaces, radiators, or heat pumps. Portable heaters, ovens, and fireplaces are not acceptable for compliance.

• Two-Pipe Systems: Buildings with two-pipe heating systems may operate at a transitional minimum of 64°F during early fall and late spring as systems switch between heating and cooling.

The consequences for failing to provide heat are costly. Landlords may be fined $500 to $1,000 per day, per violation, and the city does not accept excuses for system breakdowns. Preventive maintenance and fast response times are essential.

Working with a professional Chicago property management company like PRG Management can help landlords stay ahead of inspections, schedule seasonal tune-ups, and avoid the stress of emergency repairs.

What Tenants Need to Know

For tenants, the heat ordinance provides a clear standard for comfort and safety. You are entitled to a unit that meets the city’s minimum temperature requirements throughout the entire heat season. If your apartment’s temperature falls below the mandated minimum, contact your landlord or property manager right away. If the issue isn’t resolved, call 3-1-1 to file a heat complaint, and a city inspector will investigate and, if necessary, issue violations and fines to the landlord.

Tenants should also remember:

• Heat must come from a permanent heating system, not space heaters, ovens, or fireplaces.

• Landlords are always responsible for providing heat; tenants cannot be required to supply it themselves.

• Indoor temperature is measured three feet above the floor and three feet from exterior walls when verifying compliance.

The Chicago Heat Ordinance: Simplified

The Chicago Heat Ordinance creates a balance; landlords must maintain heat, and tenants must report issues promptly. The ultimate goal is the same for both sides: safe, comfortable, and livable housing during Chicago’s long winter. In its simplest terms, the most important things to remember for both parties are:

• Landlords must maintain required indoor temperatures or face costly penalties.

• Tenants have the right to safe, heated housing and clear pathways to report violations.

At PRG Management, we bridge that gap by ensuring landlords remain compliant while tenants feel supported. From proactive system checks and our 24/7 emergency hotline to transparent tenant communication, we make staying compliant with Chicago’s various tenant-related ordinances simple and effective.

If you’re a Chicago property owner who wants stress-free management or a tenant seeking a reliable property management company, PRG Management is here to help. Contact PRG Management today to keep your buildings compliant, your tenants comfortable, and your investment protected.

The Hidden Risks of Neglecting Chicago Facilities Management

Proper Chicago facilities management support is the backbone of any well-maintained and profitable commercial property. In Chicago, where extreme weather conditions, compliance regulations, and tenant expectations create a complex landscape for property owners and investors, neglecting facilities management can lead to significant financial and operational setbacks. As experienced Chicago property managers, PRG Management understands the critical role that proactive management plays in protecting investments and ensuring tenant satisfaction.

We collected some of the most common issues we encounter when property owners and investors hire us for our Chicago facilities management services. If you don’t work with a Chicago property management team, you may be at risk of one of these pitfalls.

Increased Maintenance Costs Due to Deferred Repairs

When routine preventative maintenance is overlooked, minor issues inevitably become more costly repairs. For example, a small plumbing leak left unattended can result in extensive water damage, mold growth, and structural deterioration. HVAC systems that are not regularly serviced may fail at the worst possible time, leading to emergency repairs that are both inconvenient and expensive. Our proactive facilities management ensures that these issues are addressed early and regularly, preventing unnecessary financial strain, and preserving the integrity of the property. 

Tenant Dissatisfaction and High Turnover Rates

A property’s physical condition directly reflects its ownership’s commitment to tenant satisfaction. When maintenance concerns are consistently ignored, residents and commercial tenants become frustrated. Leaky roofs, malfunctioning elevators/HVACs, and pest issues contribute to a poor living or working experience, prompting tenants to seek alternative options. High turnover rates mean increased vacancies and additional marketing costs, leading to lost revenue. Maintaining a property’s facilities is key to developing long-term tenant relationships and minimizing disruptions.

Local Legal and Compliance Issues

Chicago has strict building codes and property maintenance regulations that owners must adhere to. With unique requirements for different buildings, it can get complex for those not familiar with the landscape. Ignoring these responsibilities can result in costly fines, legal disputes, and, in extreme cases, condemnation of the property. Routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and general proactive facilities management actions help ensure compliance with fire safety codes, accessibility requirements, and structural integrity standards. Failing to meet these regulations can lead to legal problems that jeopardize a property’s profitability and reputation. 

Safety Hazards and Liability Risks

A poorly maintained property poses significant safety risks. Loose handrails, uneven walkways, faulty electrical wiring, and neglected fire safety systems can all contribute to accidents and severe injuries. When property owners fail to notice and address these hazards, they open themselves up to legal claims and liability lawsuits. A comprehensive facilities management plan mitigates these risks by prioritizing safety, reducing the likelihood of incidents, and protecting tenants and ownership from legal exposure.

Decreased Property Value and Marketability

Neglecting facilities management has a direct impact on property value. A building that shows signs of disrepair, such as peeling paint, outdated systems, and neglected common areas—loses its competitive edge in the market. Investors and prospective tenants notice these deficiencies, leading to reduced interest and lower valuation. Regular maintenance and strategic upgrades help sustain property value and attract quality tenants willing to pay premium rates.

Energy Inefficiency and Rising Utility Costs

An often-overlooked consequence of poor facilities management is energy inefficiency. Outdated HVAC systems, insufficient insulation, and neglected electrical systems lead to excessive energy consumption and high utility bills. Without proper oversight, property owners may be overpaying for resources that could be better managed through routine maintenance and HVAC system upgrades. Implementing energy-efficient solutions through proper facilities management cuts costs and aligns with sustainability initiatives that appeal to today’s tenants.

The Competitive Advantage of Proactive Facilities Management

In Chicago’s enormous real estate market, a well-managed property stands apart from the competition. Proactive facilities management demonstrates professionalism, protects long-term investments, and bolsters tenant retention. A proper property management team will keep these important systems and physical conditions of a building from ever snowballing out of control. By addressing maintenance and safety needs before they become major problems, property owners position themselves for sustained success.

At PRG Management, we understand the complexities of Chicago facilities management and its impact on operational efficiency. A dedicated facilities management approach safeguards your investment, ensures tenant satisfaction, and maintains compliance with important local regulations. For those looking to maintain a high-performing property in Chicago, professional facilities management is not an option—it’s a necessity. Contact us today for a FREE Chicago facilities management proposal or fill out the form below!

2024 Chicago Winterization Guide: Fall Checklist for Homeowners & Renters

2024 Chicago Winterization Guide: Preparing Your Home for Cold Weather

Winter in Chicago is both beautiful and brutal, bringing freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and ice that left unattended, can lead to some major problems when managing or owning property. First-time homeowners may be asking "How to winterize properties in Chicago?" Or "How do I winterize my Chicago home?" Whether you're a homeowner, a renter, or someone looking to sell your property, we have put together some expert recommendations from Fannie Mae and Pearson Realty Group to help you take the proper steps to winterize your home is essential for your comfort, safety, and even saving money. In this comprehensive 2024 update for our Chicago Winterization Guide, we'll cover the key areas you should address before the snow starts to fall.

Why Winterization Matters in Chicago

The Midwest, especially Chicago, is known for its extreme winter conditions—blizzards, ice storms, sub-zero temperatures, and wind chills that can make your home feel like an icebox if it's not properly prepared. Just a few years ago during the 2019 Polar Vortex homeowners and renters alike experienced what happens when you don't prepare for the worst. Taking proactive steps now ensures your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way, and it could save you thousands in potential repairs. Winterizing your home can help you:

• Improve energy efficiency and lower heating costs.

• Prevent costly repairs from frozen pipes or roof damage.

• Protect your home’s value, especially if it’s on the market.

• Enhance safety and comfort for your family.

Winterizing Your Home: A Checklist for Homeowners

1. Inspect & Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can cause heat loss, making your home less energy-efficient and increasing your heating bill. Properly sealed windows and doors can massively cut down on heat loss. Use caulking or weatherstripping products to seal any gaps that air can escape - you can always check for drafts by holding a candle or lighter near windows and door frames—if the flame flickers, there is an air leak. Homeowners should also consider upgrading to storm windows that offer an extra layer of winter protection with added insulation. When our partners at Pearson Realty Group work with Chicago REO properties during the winter months, this is often one of the first and easiest steps taken in winterizing a home.

2. Service Your Furnace and HVAC System

Your heating system is your first defense against the cold, so ensuring it’s in good working order is necessary. Many experts recommend keeping your thermostat set at a consistent temperature (around 68°F) to save on heating costs. It's also recommended you schedule a professional furnace tune-up to check for any issues and change the filters. Be sure to check your thermostat settings, and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize energy efficiency. We recommend checking your HVAC systems and major appliances to ensure any pumps, hoses, cords, or any other connections are clear of obstructions and no water damage is present. This is also a good time to check to see if your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order.

3. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which cause water to back up under your roof and potentially lead to leaks and structural damage. Remove leaves, sticks, and debris from your gutters and ensure your downspouts direct water away from the foundation to avoid water buildup and ice hazards that can lead to possible roof looks. This is also a great time to inspect the exterior of your home for pests, rodents, and any potential entryways they could use. When the winter finally kicks in, it's important to monitor for any icicles forming, as this can be a sign of heat escaping.

4. Insulate Pipes to Prevent Freezing

Frozen pipes can burst, leading to costly water damage. One way to protect your pipes is to insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like the garage, basement, or attic. You might want to consider installing heat tape for pipes in particularly cold areas of the home. For other areas of the house, you can ensure your pipes' integrity by keeping the temperature at a consistent rate, even if you're not home, to prevent freezing. We recommend a constant temp of 68°F to prevent potential issues, but every home and owner's comfort needs will be different.  This can be especially important when Pearson Realty Group’s Chicago REO team is prepping unoccupied inventory for the winter season.

5. Prepare Your Roof and Attic

Heavy snow and ice buildup can cause roof damage or even collapse in extreme cases. Attic insulation can also help prevent heat from escaping, further lowering your energy bills. Ensure your roof is ready to bear the weight of a snowy winter by inspecting your roof for missing/damaged shingles and making repairs as needed. It's also a good idea to clear out your attic and make sure it's properly insulated to prevent ice dams from forming on your roof. If you see any evidence of water damage, you should address this immediately. Preparing a roof and attic for the tough winter season is a significant portion of the preventative maintenance responsibilities PRG Management takes on for both residential and commercial spaces to ensure the building and its tenants are safe and sound.

Winterization for Renters: Essential Tips

If you’re a renter, there are still proactive steps you can take to ensure your home is warm and energy-efficient during the winter months. It’s also a good idea to check with your landlord about any shared responsibilities, like shoveling snow, salting walkways, or replacing filters to ensure you are doing everything you can to keep your home warm and comfortable. Here are a few renter-friendly winterization steps that we recommend:

• Ask your landlord to service the heating system and replace the filters.

• Use draft stoppers (or rolled-up towels) at the bottom of doors to prevent cold air from seeping in.

• Add thermal curtains to windows for extra insulation. Insulation Shrink Kits are another suitable budget-friendly solution.

• Reverse your ceiling fans to cycle warm air downward and circulate it more effectively.

• Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature, even when you're not home, to prevent pipes from freezing.

READ MORE: Apartment Renter Tips for Chicago Winters

Expert Tips from Fannie Mae

According to Fannie Mae, proper home maintenance during winter can reduce energy costs and help avoid damage that could affect the home’s value. Remember that you may need a professional to handle more advanced maintenance and repairs. Here are a few steps that not only save money but can also increase the overall comfort and safety of your home during the winter months:

• Review insurance coverage: Know what your policies cover—policy changes can’t be made during a disaster.

• Prepare an emergency kit: Include chargers, flashlights, batteries, blankets, first aid, water, and nonperishable foods.

• Use resilient materials: Opt for windproof windows, fireproof siding, and durable roofing when making improvements.

• Store valuables securely: Use weatherproof containers or safes for heirlooms and important documents.

Our partners at Pearson Realty Group's Chicago REO & Short Sale department utilize in-depth guides from Fannie Mae that provide efficient processes that allow them to winterize REO properties and REO winterization services in a timely, budget-friendly fashion.

Winterizing your Chicago home is not just an annoying task to cross off your to-do list—it’s a crucial step to protect your home and improve energy efficiency while keeping your family safe and comfortable throughout the winter season. Whether you're a homeowner or renter, taking proactive measures now will save you time, money, and stress once the snow starts to fall.

As you prepare for the upcoming winter, refer back to PRG Management's 2024 Chicago Winterization Guide to ensure you haven’t missed any crucial steps. With proper planning, your home will be ready to withstand even the harshest Chicago winter. If you plan on selling this winter, contact our partners at Pearson Realty Group today to get in touch with an experienced Chicagoland real estate agent who can guide you through the best practices for listing your home during the winter. Owners and investors looking for assistance in managing your building's winterization efforts, and beyond contact our Chicago property management team or fill out the form below for a free proposal.

Apartment Renter Tips for Chicago Winters

From some basic quality of life for city winters as well as how to save money on utilities during cold spells, these are some essential apartment renter tips on how to thrive in your Chicago Winters rental.

We always recommended checking with your landlord or property manager to ensure any sort of "improvements" or "alterations" you do are performed properly. There may be a professional vendor that your property owner may prefer to any DIY repairs.

Re-caulk or Wrap Windows

One way cold seeps into your apartment during Chicago winters (especially in older buildings) is cracks & gaps in your windows forming over time. An easy fix is to purchase from caulk to re-seal any cold breezes coming through window gaps. Another method that is quite effective, but less visually pleasing/functional is to use a Shrink Film Insulator Kit. This can be particularly useful in some older homes that do not have modern energy-efficient windows. Making sure your landlord is okay with you sealing the windows is always a good idea, as they may have a professional(s) to perform the task.

Door Draft Stopper

Threading the same needle as window leaks, gaps in your doors can cause your heating bill to be larger by allowing heat to escape. This is much easier to determine compared to window leaks but has extremely similar solutions - to seal the gap. Draft stoppers are popular fixes and come in many styles whether they be plastic strips that stick to your door or weighted cloth insulators. It will take you longer to order than it will to install - a no-brainer energy-saving method.

Use Carpet or Rugs for Insulation

Many older apartments (especially two and four flats) in the city will primarily have wood flooring, which tends to retain the cold temperatures. Buying runner and area rugs go a long way in providing simple insulation for your apartment's overall temperature. You will find the heater running less and less when you have things like rugs that can retain a bit of 'heat'. This is will also insulate any noise you make (to a degree) so this is a great cheap, simple, no-brainer quality of life improvement for any apartment renter. 

Check out the full list of apartment renter tips for Chicago winters HERE!

A Property Manager's Tips Before Closing on an Investment Property

Closing on your first investment property but not sure what to review during due diligence period and before closing? Stay calm, we have interviewed a property manager to get an expert's tips on how to facilitate a smooth closing. 

Ask For A Tenant Estoppel 

Asking for tenant estoppel is a great way to cover your tracks, and avoid future dilemmas over a tenant's lease. One thing an estoppel does is provide proof of cash flow. More importantly, estoppel prohibits a tenant from going back on their lease and making an argument that their lease should be changed. Also, this will bring to light any issues or promises that the seller has with the tenant and make sure that you as the buyer are made aware before closing. 

Ask Seller For Actual Expenses

Many times the "projected" numbers are far off from the actual expenses that a property may have. Obviously, an owner may not be forthcoming with the actual numbers, however, it is still worth a shot. You never know the actual costs until you do thorough research. It may be wise to get to know the owner and figure out if you can trust him or not. This can help confirm if your initial underwriting (or investment analysis) is in-line

Complete a plumbing inspection 

Plumbing issues can be costly. Typically, an inspector's process does not include an inspection of the underground sewer system. One thing to ask your inspector is if they can complete any underground plumbing camera inspection. If not, no worries! We always recommend getting a specialist out there to make sure the entire sewer is not caved in, has breaks major clogs that could cause issues in the near future. 

Have Your Future Property Manager Go to the Property Before Closing 

Having a reliable property manager is a necessary investment, and figuring out who it is going to be is a very wise thing to do before closing. A solid property manager will know exactly what to look for in a property. They will find costs that will be incurred in the future, that you may not have realized on your own. Generally, an experienced property manager will have a great perspective on what can and can't be done to a building, and what problems will occur in the future.  Here at Pearson, we have excellent property management, and more information on this can be found here.

City of Chicago Side Walk Repair Program

If you are a Chicago property owner or Chicago property manager and want to take advantage of free assistance to help alleviate the costs of your concrete sidewalk repairs, there is a program you need to sign up for this upcoming week. The Shared Cost Sidewalk Program is a great benefit to owners who want to share the cost of their sidewalk repairs with the City of Chicago.  Over thousands of Chicagoans have previously been a part of this great program and the city expects similar numbers this year as well.

Chicago property owners will have 24 hours to apply for the 2020 shared cost sidewalk program starting at 6 A.M. on Tuesday, January 7th and ending at 5:59 A.M. on Wednesday, January 8th.  This program highly benefits owners who have sidewalks that are within the public right of way and are not vaulted or custom. The cost per square foot that will be charged to the property owners is well below the price of a private contractor. Senior citizens and persons with disabilities are also eligible for a 50% discount when using the program.

According to the city, costs for sidewalk repairs can range anywhere from $600-$1,500 for a standard job. This program will be a great service for owners who are wanting to cut those prices in half this year.

The number of participants the city will accept is based on the availability of funds. It is also a first-come, first served basis, so owners need to act quickly!

To submit an application for this beneficial program, you can apply online at 311.chicago.gov. All applicants should specify that they want to participate in the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program, if they are a senior or have a disability, and they need to provide the property owner’s full name, contact number, email, and the property’s full address. There are also other items you can ask for such as wanting a courtesy walk or landing step installed or if you are interested in removing and replacing your driveway apron (if applicable).

You can also apply by calling 311 or 312-744-5000. The city is expecting a high interest in this program and will have extra 311 operators on hand to field calls. Contact your Chicago property manager or contact our office if you would be interested in having our team submit the request on your behalf.

The city has put together a useful list of frequently asked questions and some more information on the program that you can view by going here: https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/cdot/sdwlk/sharedcost/SCSP_FAQ_2019.pdf