After a long Ontario winter, snow and ice melt reveal what the cold has been doing to a property. Freeze-thaw cycles crack concrete, loosen shingles and push water where it should not go. Spring is the best time to inspect, because small problems found now are far cheaper than the emergency repairs they become by summer.
Start outside
- Roof and flashing: look for missing, curled or damaged shingles and gaps around vents and chimneys.
- Gutters and downspouts: clear debris and make sure water is carried away from the foundation.
- Grading and drainage: soil should slope away from the building, with no pooling after rain.
- Foundation and walls: note new cracks, damp patches or signs of settling.
- Walkways, steps and driveways: check for heaving or cracking that could cause a trip hazard.
- Decks, porches and railings: test for rot and loose fasteners.
- Outdoor taps: turn them on slowly and check for leaks inside the wall.
Then move inside
- Look for water stains, musty smells or peeling paint on ceilings and walls.
- Check under sinks and around toilets, tubs and the water heater for slow leaks.
- Test the sump pump, if there is one, by pouring water into the pit.
- Service the air conditioning and replace furnace and HVAC filters.
- Test every smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, and replace batteries as needed.
- Inspect window and door seals, screens and locks.
- Watch for signs of pests, including droppings and gnawed materials.
Respect the tenant’s home
In Ontario, a landlord generally must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering a rental unit, stating the reason and a time of entry between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. There are exceptions, such as emergencies. Explain what you will be checking, and keep the visit short and tidy.
Document, prioritize and act
Take dated photos and keep a maintenance log. Fix safety and water issues first, then anything that will get worse with time, then cosmetic items. Get quotes from licensed contractors and fold larger jobs into your annual budget.
Our seasonal maintenance checklist covers spring, fall and year-round tasks. For the other side of the year, read our fall maintenance checklist and why preventative maintenance saves money. We carry out inspections every fall and spring for the properties we manage.
Want a team to handle this for you? Book a free consultation or contact us.
