As climate change becomes more severe, winter storms in Dallas, Texas are growing in intensity and frequency. These storms are increasingly catching landlords and tenants off guard, putting not only the rental property but people’s health and safety at risk. Winter Storm Uri tore through Dallas in February of 2021, causing power outages across the state and leaving people cold and unable to run their water. 

Under Texas law, a landlord must keep their rental property safe and livable, even during extreme weather. If they don’t, tenants may be able to withhold paying rent or even break their lease. As a landlord, this makes it important to prepare your rental property for winter weather to avoid financial and legal troubles. 

Rental Property Standards During and After Winter Storms

If you’re a landlord in Dallas, Texas, you are required to maintain basic living conditions for your tenants, regardless of weather conditions. This means providing working heat, running water, and sanitation. If your rental property becomes habitable because of something like a broken furnace or frozen pipes, tenants may legally stop paying rent until the issue is fixed. They can even use their rent money to hire someone to make the repairs if you don’t act quickly. 

While being a landlord might seem costly, the cost of not addressing concerns promptly can be even more expensive. In Dallas, where freezing weather can lead to burst pipes and heating failures, landlords need to be especially mindful of hypothermia and carbon monoxide poisoning. During Winter Storm Uri, some tenants went days without heat or running water, leading to dangerous conditions and major disputes between renters and rental property owners. A landlord who ignores maintenance risks losing rental income and facing legal action. 

How to Prepare a Rental Property for Winter Weather in Dallas 

Keeping your Dallas rental property ready for winter storms means planning ahead and investing in proper maintenance. Heating systems are one of the most important areas to focus on. Older systems are more likely to break down during a freeze, so upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient furnace can make a huge difference. It provides reliable heating and reduces energy costs, which is helpful if you’re a landlord covering utilities as part of the rent. 

Backup generators can give you peace of mind when winter storms cause power outages, ensuring tenants still have heat and electricity even when the grid is down. For added safety, provide tenants with supplies like salt or sand for clearing icy walkways and stairs. These practical measures, along with regular communication and timely maintenance, keep your rental property protected and tenants happy through Dallas’s unpredictable winter weather. It also helps prevent potential legal issues that could arise if the rental property becomes unlivable. 

Why Insulation and Exterior Upgrades Matter

A well-insulated property can handle cold weather much better than one with poor insulation. In Dallas, where winter storms bring freezing temperatures, improving insulation is one of the best ways to protect your rental property. Adding insulation to attics and crawl spaces keeps warm air inside, making it easier for heating systems to maintain a steady temperature despite outdoor conditions. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests R-38 insulation for attics in North Texas, which helps reduce heating costs and protects against cold weather damage. 

Wrapping exposed pipes in foam or heat tape helps prevent freezing and bursting, which are common concerns during Dallas winter storms. Additionally, checking exterior vents and closing gaps around openings like dryer vents can prevent cold air from straining heating systems inside the rental property.

Windows and doors are also areas that need your attention as a landlord. Drafty windows or poorly sealed doors let cold air in and warm air out, forcing heating systems to work harder. Upgrading to double-pane windows or storm doors helps retain heat, keeping tenants comfortable. These upgrades are particularly helpful for landlords who pay for utilities, as they can lower energy bills significantly. 

Exterior maintenance is equally essential. In Dallas, freezing rain and ice can clog gutters, causing water to back up and damage the roof. Cleaning gutters before winter storms can prevent this issue. Regularly inspecting the property’s exterior, including siding and weather stripping, can also help avoid costly repairs later. Chimneys should also be cleaned before winter to prevent fires, tar-like build-up, and leaked carbon monoxide. 

How Landlords Can Prepare Tenants for Winter Storms

Landlords in Dallas need help from their tenants if they hope to keep their rental property safe. When new residents move in, it’s crucial for the landlord to talk to them about winter preparation. This can include removing and draining outdoor hoses. allowing indoor faucets to drip during freezing weather, and keeping the thermostat set to at least 58° at all times. These simple actions can help prevent frozen or burst pipes. 

Ahead of major winter storms, remind tenants to check for drafts, bring outdoor items inside, and stock up on essentials like flashlights and water. Clear communication helps tenants feel supported and ensures they know how to prepare. Emergency contact information, including for repair services, should also be provided.  Being available during winter storms or other emergencies shows tenants that their safety is a priority.

Get Ready for Winter with a Property Manager

Winter weather in Dallas may be brief, but its impact can be severe. Freezing temperatures, ice storms, and power outages can disrupt tenants’ lives and lead to costly repairs. By upgrading heating systems, improving insulation, and proactively handling maintenance issues, a landlord can minimize the risks associated with winter storms and maintain a safe, comfortable rental property.

From HVAC inspections to emergency repairs and resident communication, winter storms can add a lot to a landlord’s plate. An experienced property manager like Evernest can provide extra support, handling all these tasks plus more. Their partnerships with vetted and insured contractors ensure your rental property is protected, allowing you to maintain your passive income during some of the coldest months of the year.