Cold and wet conditions not only make an Association miserable, they can also create damage to the homes and buildings within the community. Some winterizing can wait, but some can't! An HOA board can help residents out by making a list of what needs to be done, and tackle the time-sensitive tasks first. Here is a simple checklist for your homeowners association to stay on top of the winter season.

Indoor Winterizing

• Examine all doors within the home and replace weather-stripping as needed.
• Examine all window caulking and reseal where needed.
• Examine and repair air vents where needed.
• Clean all chimneys and flues.
• Take a look at all internal plumbing fixtures to make sure they are sealed and caulked well.
• Remove any items near heat vents, fireplaces, and space heaters.
• Place nonskid runners or door mats outside to help keep water and mud out of the house. These pesky messes seem to make their way into your home too easily during the winter season.

Outdoor Winterizing

• Make sure to cut back tree branches and shrubs that hide signs or block light. The homeowners association's landscape vendor may be able to assist with this project.
• Examine outdoor handrails and tighten any elements, if needed.
• Turn off electrical breakers for outdoor equipment, if necessary.
• Examine hose bibs to make sure they are sealed well and closed.
• Hire a licensed vendor to clean out gutters and downspouts on buildings.
• Also have a licensed vendor clean all debris off roofs and carport roofing.
• Clear yard drains.
• Spray outdoor locks and hinges with lubricant.
• Stake driveway and walkway edges that may be difficult to find under deep snow, if necessary.
• Check for any slip or trip hazards within the homeowners association.

Assemble, stockpile or refresh winter season supplies

• Batteries
• Candles, matches, and flashlights
• Ice melt and deicer
• Sand
• Generator fuel
• Antifreeze
• Fire extinguishers
• Smoke alarm batteries
• Blankets
• Bottled or distilled water
• AM/FM radio

Preparation is the best protection to stay safe and warm! Winter weather preparation can be considered timely and expensive initially, but the steps taken to be proactive by winterizing your home will certainly pay off in the long run if your Association is prepared when disaster strikes. The membership will also appreciate the effort the HOA Board of Directors takes to set up the community for success, ahead of time.