Winter Is Here
Shoveling • Frozen Pipes • Treat Driveways/ Walkways
Insulation • Gutters • Roofing
Weatherstripping
Heating Systems • Leaks • Emergency Services
Winter in Washington, DC brings more than chilly temps — it brings challenges and liability risks for landlords who manage rental properties throughout the District. Whether you own a duplex in Petworth or a multi-unit building on Capitol Hill, staying ahead of winter weather can protect your tenants, preserve your investment, and keep you compliant with city regulations.
At the DC Landlord Association, we’re prioritizing members this season with guidance and support — including snow removal coordination, emergency contacts, and actionable checklists you can implement now.
Here’s what you need to know for winter readiness in DC:
❄️ 1. Stay On Top of Snow & Ice Removal
Under DC law, property owners must remove snow and ice from the sidewalks bordering their properties within a defined period after a snowfall ends. This includes clearing a walk path wide enough for pedestrians (up to approximately 36″) and applying sand or de-icing material if snow cannot be physically removed immediately.
Failing to clear sidewalks in time can result in fines — and more importantly, injuries. DC’s Department of Public Works provides a Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption Program for qualified residents (65+ or with a qualifying disability) to be exempt from enforcement, but this generally does not apply to investment properties you manage.
💡 Tip: Include snow removal responsibilities in your lease agreements and assign them clearly — either to the tenant or to a professional service — so everyone knows who is accountable when the flakes fly.
💧 2. Prevent Frozen Pipes and Heating Failures
Cold weather puts extra strain on plumbing and HVAC systems. Frozen pipes can burst, causing extensive water damage, while heating failures lead to tenant complaints (and in some cases, code violations).
Winterization checklist:
Insulate exposed pipes and outdoor faucets.
Test heating systems before temperatures drop.
Weatherstrip doors and windows to improve energy retention.
Advise tenants on thermostat settings to reduce freezing risk.
🧊 3. Walkways & Driveways — Keep Them Safe
Treat driveways, walkways, and entry points with salt or pet-friendly deicer before and after storms to prevent slips and falls — a common winter liability issue. Clear large accumulation early in the morning or after plow crews finish their runs.
Smart maintenance saves you money on claims and keeps tenants safer throughout the season.
🏠 4. Inspect Gutters, Roofs, and Insulation
Winter can worsen small issues into big repairs. Ice dams form when gutters are clogged; inadequate insulation increases heating costs and moisture buildup.
Schedule a quick winter inspection of:
Gutters and downspouts
Roof flashing and shingles
Attic insulation
Basement drainage points
Getting ahead of these concerns now prevents costly emergency fixes later.
🚨 5. DC Landlord Association Members: We’ve Got You
Winter can escalate quickly — and priorities shift with weather conditions. As a member, you receive:
Priority coordination for snow removal services
Alerts and compliance reminders during snow events
Access to emergency vendor resources
Member-only winter readiness webinars
👉 If you haven’t already, text us at 202-793-8600 to get connected — let us help you stay ahead of winter weather and protect your properties.
Questions or Need Winter Support?
We’re here to help. Reach out any time:
📧 info@dclandlord.org
📱 Text 202-793-8600
Stay warm, stay compliant, and let this winter be one you manage with confidence.
— The DC Landlord Association Team