Beth Davis

All County Editor

How to Prepare Your Home for a Freeze: A Guide for Tenants, Landlords & Vacant Properties

Freezing temperatures can cause serious and costly damage to homes and rental properties. From burst pipes to HVAC failures and water damage, winter storms can quickly turn into expensive emergencies if properties are not properly prepared.

Whether you are a tenant, landlord, or property owner with a vacant home, understanding winter freeze preparation is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover how to prepare your home for a freeze, what tenants are typically responsible for, what landlords must handle, and how All County Property Management protects vacant properties during cold weather.

Why Freeze Preparation Matters

Even a short freeze can cause major damage. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze and expand. As a result, pipes can crack or burst, leading to flooding once temperatures rise. In addition, frozen HVAC systems, roof leaks from ice, and power outages can create long-term issues.

Because of this, proactive winter freeze preparation helps:

• Prevent burst pipes and water damage

• Protect HVAC systems

• Reduce emergency repair costs

• Maintain habitability for tenants

• Protect vacant properties from severe losses

Tenant Responsibilities During a Freeze

While landlord responsibilities vary by state and lease terms, tenants generally play an important role in preventing freeze-related damage. In most cases, tenants are expected to take reasonable steps to protect the property they rent.

Common Tenant Responsibilities Include:

1. Maintain Adequate Heat

Tenants should keep the heat on and maintain a safe indoor temperature, even when away. Turning off the heat during freezing weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst.

2. Allow Faucets to Drip (When Advised)

In extreme cold, allowing certain faucets to drip slightly can help prevent pipes from freezing by keeping water moving.

3. Open Cabinet Doors

Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to circulate around plumbing, especially on exterior walls.

4. Report Issues Immediately

Tenants should promptly report:

• No heat

• Frozen or slow-running pipes

• Water leaks

• Unusual sounds in plumbing

• HVAC malfunctions

Early reporting helps prevent minor issues from becoming major emergencies.

5. Follow Property-Specific Freeze Instructions

If a property manager or landlord provides specific winterization instructions, tenants are expected to follow them.

Landlord Responsibilities for Freeze Protection

Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the property in a habitable condition and ensuring major systems are functioning properly.

Common Landlord Responsibilities Include:

1. Maintaining Heating Systems

Landlords must ensure heating systems are operational and capable of maintaining safe indoor temperatures.

2. Insulating and Protecting Plumbing

This may include:

• Insulating exposed pipes

• Repairing drafts or broken windows

• Sealing exterior openings

• Maintaining crawlspace or attic insulation

3. Addressing Known Vulnerabilities

If a property has a history of freezing pipes or cold spots, landlords should take proactive steps to correct these issues.

4. Emergency Response

Landlords must respond to emergency maintenance issues, such as:

• No heat

• Burst pipes

• Active water leaks

• Electrical failures caused by storms

How to Prepare Your Home for a Freeze (Best Practices)

Whether you are a tenant or landlord, these steps help protect a home during freezing temperatures:

• Set thermostat to at least 55–60°F or higher

• Insulate exposed pipes

• Seal drafts around doors and windows

• Disconnect and drain exterior hoses

• Shut off and drain outdoor spigots

• Check attic and crawlspace insulation

• Clear gutters and downspouts

• Know where the main water shut-off valve is located

Taking these steps reduces the risk of freeze damage and costly repairs.

How All County Protects Vacant Properties During Winter Storms

Vacant properties are especially vulnerable during freezing weather. Without daily occupancy, small issues can go unnoticed and turn into major losses. That’s why professional property management is critical for winter protection.

At All County Property Management, we take proactive steps to protect vacant properties, including:

1. Winterization Services

When appropriate, All County coordinates:

• Water shut-off and line draining

• Antifreeze in plumbing traps

• System winterization for extended vacancies

2. Regular Property Checks

We conduct routine inspections to ensure:

• Heat is functioning

• No visible leaks

• No storm or freeze-related damage

• Thermostats are set properly

3. Emergency Monitoring

During major winter storms, our teams monitor conditions and respond quickly to:

• Power outages

• Heating failures

• Freeze alerts

• Water intrusion

4. Vendor Coordination

We maintain relationships with licensed vendors to provide rapid response for plumbing, HVAC, and emergency repairs when temperatures drop.

Why Professional Property Management Matters in Winter

Winter weather doesn’t just test your property — it tests your systems, vendors, and response plans. Professional property management ensures nothing falls through the cracks when temperatures drop. Winter freeze preparation reduces costly damage.

With over 35 years of experience, All County Property Management helps protect your investment year-round. From tenant communication to emergency response and vacant property protection, our systems are designed to minimize risk and reduce costly winter damage.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for a freeze is a shared responsibility. Tenants, landlords, and property managers all play a role in protecting the property and preventing damage. By taking proactive steps, communicating early, and working with a professional management team, you can significantly reduce winter-related risks.

If you own rental property or have a vacant home that needs winter protection, All County Property Management is here to help keep your investment safe — even in the coldest conditions.

All County is nationwide.  To find an All County location near you, visit our locations page at www.allcountyprop.com.