Why Winter Prep Matters in Chicago

Chicago’s climate can create challenges affecting:

• Heating systems
• Plumbing and potential pipe freezes
• Building accessibility
• Energy bills
• Tenant comfort and safety

The National Weather Service warns that wind chills in the Midwest can drop to dangerous levels.

Proper preparation prevents emergencies, costly repairs, and heat-loss issues.

FOR LANDLORDS: Essential Winter Prep Tasks

1. Schedule a Furnace or Boiler Tune-Up

Heating failures are one of the most common winter emergencies. A preseason inspection ensures:

• Efficient heating
• Better air quality
• Lower energy consumption

For recommended HVAC maintenance schedules, check the U.S. Department of Energy.

2. Seal Windows & Doors to Prevent Drafts

Drafty windows = higher bills and colder units.

Landlords can reduce heat loss by:

• Re-caulking windows
• Adding weather stripping
• Checking storm windows
• Providing tenants with optional insulation kits

Energy-saving window tips from Energy Star.

3. Protect Plumbing From Freezing

Frozen pipes can cause thousands of dollars in damage.

Prevent this by:

• Insulating exposed pipes
• Checking basement and crawlspace drafts
• Ensuring heat reaches vulnerable areas

The Red Cross provides pipe-freeze prevention guidance.

4. Maintain Safe Walkways, Entrances & Sidewalks

Chicago requires property owners to clear snow and ice.

Snow removal rules:

City of Chicago Snow Clearing Requirements

Landlords should ensure:

• Entrances are salted
• Sidewalks and stairs are shoveled
• Ice melt is available for tenants

5. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide incidents increase in winter due to heating system use.

Health guidance from CDC.

Make sure all detectors:

• Have fresh batteries
• Are installed in required locations
• Meet Chicago building code standards

FOR TENANTS: How to Prepare Your Apartment for Winter

1. Keep Indoor Temperatures Consistent

Sharp temperature drops can trigger frozen pipes.

Tenants should:

• Keep heat set to at least 65°F
• Avoid turning heat off when leaving
• Allow air circulation by keeping some doors open

Learn why consistent heat matters from Ready.gov.

2. Report Drafts or Heating Issues Early

Tenants should notify their landlord at the first sign of:

• Cold spots
• Sudden heat loss
• Window drafts
• Strange furnace noises

This helps prevent bigger problems and ensures compliance with heating requirements.

3. Winter-Proof Your Windows

Affordable items tenants can use:

• Thermal curtains
• Window insulation film
• Draft blockers

Consumer guidance from Home Depot’s Winterizing Tips.

4. Prep Your Balcony or Outdoor Area

For tenants with private outdoor spaces:

• Store furniture
• Cover grills (if allowed)
• Remove plants before frost

This protects personal belongings and prevents debris from blocking drains.

5. Understand Snow Removal Responsibilities

Some buildings handle all snow removal; others assign certain areas to tenants.

If unsure—always ask your landlord.

Shared Responsibilities: Landlords + Tenants

Winter runs more smoothly when both sides stay proactive with:

• Fast communication
• Monitoring heat and plumbing
• Keeping common areas safe
• Following building guidelines

The goal? A warm, comfortable, and safe winter season for everyone.

Searching for a New Apartment This Winter?

NXT Realty offers well-maintained apartments across Chicago. Explore our listings: Vacancies

Learn more about who we are: About Us

Stay informed with more helpful posts like this: More Blog Posts

Final Thoughts

Winter in Chicago can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, both landlords and tenants can enjoy a safe, warm, and hassle-free season.