Winter in Canada can be tough on your apartment, but a little proactive maintenance can make all the difference. Keeping your space cozy, safe, and energy-efficient doesn’t take much effort—and it can help you avoid costly repairs. Check out these simple tips to stay warm, comfortable, and save on heating costs this season.

If you’re renting with Park Property Management, you’re already in a great spot with high-quality living spaces designed to weather the season. Use this guide to tackle the cold Canadian winter and keep your apartment running smoothly, without breaking the bank.

7 Tips for Tenants Renting a Property During Winter

With Canadian winter temperatures often dropping to extreme lows and snowstorms frequently causing disruptions, it's essential to take steps to protect your rental. These winter maintenance tips will help keep your apartment safe, warm, and well-functioning throughout the colder months.

1. Optimize Your Heating

In warmer months, renters might not think about their heating system often. During the winter, however, efficient heating is a necessity, and you’ll notice if it isn’t working properly.

As a renter, you may not have full control over the heating system, but there are still simple ways to stay comfortable while keeping energy costs down:

  • Communicate with your landlord: If you notice issues with the heating system or thermostat, let your landlord or property manager know. They are typically responsible for ensuring everything is working properly.
  • Layer up: Wearing cozy layers can help make your apartment feel warmer. Consider extra blankets or wearing thicker clothing to stay comfortable, without turning the heat up too high.
  • Use portable heaters safely: If you use space heaters, remember to place them on flat surfaces and keep them clear of anything flammable. Always follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines and avoid overloading circuits to prevent power issues.

A snowy street lined with apartment buildings

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2. Remove Snow and Ice

This is a must if your unit has a balcony. Even apartments with small balconies can accumulate enough snow and ice to cause damage to windows or slip hazards.

While light layers of snow aren’t a concern, heavy piles can strain balconies, railings, and awnings. Ice can warp and damage siding, windows, and wood, especially when it melts and refreezes. To prevent issues, use an ice scraper and snow removal equipment to clear them away. Apply salt or sand on ice as needed.

3. Seal Doors and Windows

Drafts aren’t always obvious—they often creep through windows, door frames, or small cracks. Even if you’ve optimized your heating, unnoticed drafts could be working against you.

Seal windows and doors with weather stripping to insulate your apartment and keep the heat in doors. Proactively preparing your home in winter ensures you are working with your heating system, rather than against it to keep costs low.

4. Avoid Frozen Pipes

While frozen pipes can be a concern in colder weather, renters can still take simple steps to prevent issues.

If your apartment has faucets that aren't used regularly, consider running warm water through them occasionally, especially during extended cold spells. If you notice that certain pipes are particularly exposed to the cold (near windows, for example), you can try to keep your cabinets open to let warmer air circulate, or ask your landlord if there’s anything they can do to help insulate the pipes.

In extreme cold, some people keep their faucets slightly open to let water drip and prevent freezing. However, check with your property management to see if they have any specific guidelines or recommendations for winterizing your space.

A wintry landscape shown from inside the house

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5. Inspect the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Winter can bring added risks, with more frequent use of furnaces, water heaters, space heaters, and stoves—common sources of carbon monoxide. While you might not be responsible for installing or maintaining these detectors, it’s important to ensure they are working properly.

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly by pressing the test button. If the batteries are low or the alarms seem faulty, notify your landlord or property management to replace them. If you’re ever unsure about the state of your detectors, don't hesitate to ask your building manager for an inspection.

6. Use a Boot Tray as Ice Melts

Cold weather brings salt, snow, and ice—all of which can take a toll on your apartment’s interior. Salt can cause corrosion and staining, while melting ice and snow can lead to water damage.

To protect your floors, use boot trays at entrances to contain messes and prevent damage. This simple step keeps your space clean and extends the life of your flooring.

7. Cover or Store Outdoor Furniture

While some pieces covered by an awning or balcony can withstand winter conditions, many materials deteriorate under the weight of snow, the stress of ice, or repeated freezing and thawing. Canvas can become brittle and tear, metal may rust, and wood can rot.

If possible, store patio furniture indoors. If space is limited, cover it with a tarp to shield it from the elements. Choose the best protection based on the material of your furniture to extend its lifespan.

a lit candle next to a decorative plant on a table

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How Winter Maintenance Tips Benefit Renters

Taking a few simple steps to winterize your apartment can help protect your comfort, safety, and budget. These quick maintenance tasks are easy to implement and can help prevent bigger issues down the road.

Avoid Damage

Winter maintenance in your apartment saves you time, money, and hassle. Damages can be inconvenient or costly to repair. Taking simple precautions helps prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

Live Safely and Comfortably

Cold drafts and low temperatures can make apartment living uncomfortable. While bundling up in a cozy blanket or sipping on a favourite hot drink helps, these maintenance tips ensure your apartment is comfortable in all weather conditions. Clearing snow and ice also reduces safety hazards, keeping you and your neighbours safe.

Lower Energy Costs

Winter often brings higher energy bills, largely due to your heating system working overtime. These simple tips help improve efficiency to keep your heating costs manageable.

Follow Your Apartment Lease

The average apartment lease requires tenants to prevent property damage whenever possible and handle basic upkeep. Following these winter maintenance tips helps you follow this agreement while improving your quality of life. By following these tips for tenants renting a property in the winter, you can save money, enjoy a cozy living space, and avoid common winter hassles.

Comfortable, Affordable Apartment Living with Park Property Management

At Park Property Management, we prioritize quality and resident satisfaction. Our apartments are designed and maintained for safety, comfort, and convenience, ensuring you feel at home year-round.

With thoughtfully chosen locations, modern amenities, and dedicated customer care, our residents enjoy a seamless living experience. Find your next apartment with us and keep it cozy all winter with these essential winter apartment maintenance tips.