Winter Property Walkthrough Checklist

Use this checklist when you (or your property manager/handyman) walk a Texas rental home mid-winter. It’s designed for single-family properties and assumes winter here means: random cold snaps, possible freezes, and tenants spending more time indoors.

You can print this and use one page per property.

Exterior & Roof

Roof & Gutters

•  Visually check roof from the ground (or safely from a ladder): no missing, curled, or broken shingles.
•  Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for gaps or obvious damage.
•  Clean gutters and downspouts; make sure water flows away from the foundation.
•  Confirm downspouts discharge at least a few feet from the house (add splash blocks or extensions if needed).

Siding, Trim & Openings

•  Inspect siding for cracks, holes, or gaps that let in drafts or pests.
•  Check caulking around windows, doors, and exterior penetrations (cables, pipes, vents); re-caulk where needed.
•  Look for peeling paint or exposed wood and note areas for spring touch-ups.

Walkways & Yard

•  Walk paths, driveways, and steps—no major trip hazards or loose railings.
•  Confirm exterior lights at entries and walkways work and have bulbs installed.
•  Trim shrubs or tree branches in contact with the house or roof (or note for landscaper).

Plumbing & Freeze Protection

Outside Plumbing

•  Verify all hose bibs (spigots) have foam covers or other protection.
•  Confirm hoses are disconnected from spigots.
•  Check irrigation system backflow preventer and exposed lines for insulation or protection.

Inside Plumbing

•  Identify fixtures on exterior walls (kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, laundry).
•  Open cabinets under those sinks and check for drafts, unsealed openings, or visible gaps around pipes.
•  Add or note the need for insulation/foam around vulnerable pipes in garages, crawlspaces, or unconditioned areas.

Tenant Instructions (if occupied)

•  Re-send or review freeze instructions with tenant: dripping faucets, cabinet doors open, thermostat minimum.
•  Confirm tenant knows how to report low water pressure, no water, or leaks quickly.

HVAC & Ventilation

Heating System

•  Check and replace air filter if dirty or past recommended life.
•  Turn heat on and confirm it reaches set temperature in a reasonable time.
•  Walk each room: warm air is coming from vents, no extreme cold spots (beyond normal).
•  Listen for unusual noises (squealing, grinding, loud bangs).

Equipment Area

•  Inspect around the indoor unit (closet, attic, or garage) for water stains, corrosion, or burned/scorched areas.
•  For outdoor heat pump units, clear leaves/debris and confirm at least 2–3 feet of clearance on all sides.

Thermostat

•  Test thermostat: it turns system on/off as expected.
•  If programmable/smart, confirm basic schedule is reasonable for winter (no “heat OFF” for long periods in freezing weather).

Safety Devices

Smoke & CO Detectors

•  Confirm presence of smoke detectors on every level and near bedrooms.
•  Test each detector using the test button.
•  Replace batteries where needed.
•  If gas appliances are present, confirm carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functional.

Fire Safety & Electrical

•  Locate any fire extinguisher(s); check gauge (if present) and overall condition.
•  Test GFCI outlets (kitchen, baths, garage, exterior) using “Test” and “Reset” buttons.
•  During interior walk, note any overloaded power strips, daisy-chained extension cords, or unsafe space heater setups and address with tenant.

Dryer & Venting

•  Check dryer vent outside: strong airflow, no lint clogging the cover.
•  If accessible, inspect and clean dryer vent line (or schedule a cleaning).

Windows, Doors & Drafts

•  Check weatherstripping around exterior doors; replace worn or missing strips.
•  Look for light under entry doors; install or adjust door sweeps if needed.
•  Inspect windows for cracked panes, broken locks, or big gaps; note any failed seals or obvious drafts.

Interior Condition & Moisture

•  Look at ceilings and upper walls for water stains or fresh discoloration (especially under roof valleys, around chimneys, near bathrooms).
•  Check around windows for condensation damage, peeling paint, or soft drywall.
•  Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near tubs/showers for signs of leaks or soft flooring.

Vacant Property Checks (if applicable)

•  Confirm thermostat is set to a safe minimum (typically 55–60°F or as you’ve chosen).
• Verify water is either:
  • Left on and pipes are protected, or
  • Turned off at main and lines appropriately drained (per your plumber’s guidance).
•  Walk entire property for signs of break-ins, vandalism, or unnoticed leaks.

Final Steps

•  Note all needed repairs by priority: urgent, before next freeze, spring/summer project.
•  Update your property maintenance log with date of walkthrough and key findings.
•  If tenant-occupied, send a brief follow-up thanking them and summarizing any items that may affect them (filter changes, safety checks, upcoming repairs).

Use this same checklist every winter. Over time, you’ll spot patterns at each property and can plan smarter upgrades that reduce emergencies and keep your Texas rentals in solid shape year after year.