{"id":183542,"date":"2025-06-27T13:10:36","date_gmt":"2025-06-27T19:10:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/?p=183542"},"modified":"2025-07-30T11:17:13","modified_gmt":"2025-07-30T17:17:13","slug":"high-season-high-stakes-navigating-summer-risks-in-property-management","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/high-season-high-stakes-navigating-summer-risks-in-property-management","title":{"rendered":"High Season, High Stakes: Navigating Summer Risks in Property Management"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>This article is presented by <strong><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/nreig.com\/?utm_source=BiggerPocketsBlog&amp;utm_medium=June&amp;utm_campaign=BiggerPockets2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">National Real Estate Insurance Group<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Summer might mean beach trips, barbecues, and sunshine for most people, but for real estate investors, the warmer months also bring their own set of challenges. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">From unpredictable <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/safest-and-least-safe-real-estate-markets-from-natural-disasters\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">extreme weather events<\/span><\/a> <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">like<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> hurricanes and floods to increased liability concerns from outdoor gatherings, the risks during this season aren&#8217;t something you can <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">just<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> ignore.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Whether you&#8217;re managing a handful of single-family homes or overseeing a large apartment complex, proactive risk management during the summer months is critical. Because let&#8217;s face it: When things heat up, the last thing you want is to be caught off guard dealing with property damage, tenant injuries, or system failures.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">In this summer survival guide, we&#8217;re breaking down the most common seasonal risks landlords face, along with actionable steps to protect your investment, tenants, and peace of mind.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Extreme Weather and System Strain<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When summer rolls around, it isn&#8217;t just sunscreen you need to stock up on. For real estate investors, extreme weather events like severe thunderstorms, floods, hurricanes, and damaging hail can cause headaches faster than you can say &#8220;insurance claim.&#8221; These unpredictable events can lead to roof damage, flooding basements, shattered windows, and even structural issues that disrupt tenants&#8217; lives and drain your <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/rental-property-cash-flow-analysis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">cash flow<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">But weather isn&#8217;t your only worry. Increased summer temperatures mean tenants are running their HVAC systems harder and longer, putting significant strain on your property&#8217;s cooling systems. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly emergency repairs, and unhappy tenants left sweating in the heat.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The good news is there are proactive steps you can take right now to protect yourself:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Perform regular HVAC maintenance<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> before the heat wave hits. Change filters, inspect units, and ensure everything is running efficiently. Encourage tenants to keep their thermostats at consistent, moderate temperatures to reduce stress on the system.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Conduct a comprehensive property inspection<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> focused on weather vulnerabilities. Look for loose roof shingles, damaged siding, blocked gutters, or any other potential issues that could escalate in severe weather.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Provide clear guidance to tenants<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> on what to do in case of severe weather. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> might include securing outdoor furniture, clearing drainage areas, and promptly reporting any weather-related damage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Liability Concerns and Tenant Education<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Summer is <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">peak<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> season for outdoor fun\u2014think pool parties, backyard barbecues, and evening gatherings around the fire pit. While these activities make for great memories, they can also quickly turn into liability nightmares for landlords if something goes wrong. The last thing you want is a tenant or their guest getting injured on your property, leaving you vulnerable to costly lawsuits and medical claims.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Here\u2019s how you can proactively tackle these common liability issues to protect your investment, your tenants, and your peace of mind.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Clearly outline safety guidelines around pools, patios, and grilling areas in your <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/what-to-include-in-a-lease-agreement\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">lease agreements<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. Ensure tenants understand their responsibilities and the expectations for safe behavior.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Educate your tenants on fire safety practices, especially when grilling or using fire pits. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Simple steps <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">like<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> keeping grills away from structures, properly extinguishing fires, and never leaving flames unattended can significantly reduce risks.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Provide regular safety reminders throughout the summer months. Consider sending out emails or posting notices in common areas to reinforce best practices and remind tenants of the importance of safe behavior.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Even with the best tenant education and preventative measures, incidents can still occur.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Property Maintenance and Tenant Reporting<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When summer hits, your tenants aren&#8217;t the only ones spending more time outdoors. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Patios, decks, stairs, and other outdoor areas <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">see<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> increased foot traffic, <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">which means<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> higher wear and tear<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">potentially leading<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> to dangerous and costly safety issues.<\/span> <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">A loose railing or damaged step isn&#8217;t just inconvenient; it could easily result in serious injuries and liability claims that <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">hit<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> your bottom line <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">hard<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Proactive maintenance and encouraging timely tenant reporting are your best lines of defense. Here&#8217;s <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">exactly<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> how you can stay ahead of common issues to safeguard your property, protect your tenants, and keep your peace of mind:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Schedule regular inspections<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> of all outdoor structures, especially before peak summer activity. Look for loose boards, cracked concrete, unstable railings, and other early signs of damage.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Create an easy, clear<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> channel for tenant communication.<\/span><\/strong> <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Whether it\u2019s a dedicated email, text hotline, or maintenance request system, ensure tenants know <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">exactly<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> how <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">to <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">quickly<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> report any safety or maintenance issues<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Promptly address maintenance requests. <\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Quick action not only helps avoid larger, costlier repairs down the <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">line,<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> but also reinforces tenant confidence, leading them to report issues earlier and more consistently.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Regularly remind tenants<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> about their role in maintaining the property\u2019s safety and condition. Emphasize the importance of promptly reporting even minor concerns to prevent bigger problems.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Taking these proactive steps <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">shows tenants<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> you genuinely care about <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">their<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> safety, encourages them to participate in the upkeep of your property, and ultimately saves you from costly surprises.<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Couple these efforts with robust coverage from a specialized insurer like <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">National<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Real Estate Insurance Group (NREIG), and you\u2019re fully equipped to handle summer&#8217;s increased property demands with confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Securing Vacant Properties<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Vacant properties <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">might<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> seem <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">low maintenance<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, but summer months can quickly turn them into targets for trespassers, vandals, or worse.<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Unattended properties invite unwanted attention, <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">leading<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> to potential property damage, liability issues, and costly repairs. It&#8217;s crucial for landlords to proactively secure these properties to avoid turning an empty house into a big headache.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Here\u2019s your actionable checklist to ensure vacant properties remain safe and secure:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Regularly inspect and maintain vacant properties.<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Frequent visits help deter trespassers, identify any damages early, and ensure your property doesn\u2019t appear neglected or abandoned.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Invest in visible security measures<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> such as security cameras, alarm systems, or motion-sensitive lighting. These not only discourage unauthorized entry but also alert you quickly to any unusual activity.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Clearly<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> mark properties with \u201cNo Trespassing\u201d signs.<\/span><\/strong> <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Simple yet effective, these signs <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">explicitly<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> communicate boundaries and can <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">assist in legally supporting<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> your position if enforcement becomes necessary.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Inform trusted neighbors or local authorities<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> that your property is vacant. An extra pair of eyes can significantly reduce the risk of unnoticed trespassing or vandalism.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Implementing these proactive measures means you\u2019ll significantly reduce the risk of issues associated with vacant properties, ensuring your investment remains secure and protected throughout the summer months.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Comprehensive Protection With Tailored Insurance<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When managing rental properties, particularly during the high-risk summer months, it\u2019s essential to have insurance coverage <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">specifically crafted<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> for real estate investors. Regular homeowners policies often leave significant gaps that won\u2019t address the unique challenges you face\u2014such as business income loss (or loss of rents, <\/span><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">which is different from loss of use on a Homeowners policy<\/span><\/em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">), vacation rentals, and increased seasonal liabilities.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Here\u2019s what comprehensive, investor-focused insurance should cover:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Robust liability coverage: <\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ensures <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">you\u2019re protected<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> against claims arising from tenant injuries or property damage during summer gatherings, pool activities, or grilling incidents.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Property protection: <\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Protection against sudden, seasonal hazards, like fire, lightning, Wind\/Hail, etc.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Vacant property coverage:<\/span><\/strong> <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Selection of<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> the appropriate coverage can provide essential protection for vacant properties, covering risks <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">like<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> vandalism, theft, and unauthorized entry, which tend to <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">spike<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> when properties are unattended.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Flood and Named Storm coverage: Add-on products to address potential losses from specific types of severe weather events that are more frequent during the summer months.&nbsp;<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Equipment Breakdown coverage:<\/span><\/strong> <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Covers<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> the physical and financial damage that can result from mechanical or electrical breakdown of many critical systems at your investment property, such as a boiler.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Need Help Making All This Easier?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The truth is, all these steps can only go so far to protect you and your assets. The best protection is an insurance policy that fits the unique needs of your property. And if all of this feels overwhelming, you\u2019re not alone.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">That\u2019s why I always recommend checking out <\/span><strong><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/nreig.com\/?utm_source=BiggerPocketsBlog&amp;utm_medium=June&amp;utm_campaign=BiggerPockets2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">National Real Estate Insurance Group <\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">(NREIG)<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. They\u2019re not just an insurance company\u2014they specialize in working with real estate investors. That means they <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">actually<\/span> <em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">get<\/span><\/em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> what you\u2019re dealing with. From customized landlord coverage to their Tenant Protector Plan\u00ae to liability protection for short-term rentals, they make it way easier to keep your portfolio protected.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">And let\u2019s be real: Having a team in your corner who knows the ins and outs of protecting rental properties? That\u2019s a game-changer.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">With a dedicated team that truly understands the intricacies of rental properties, NREIG simplifies the process of obtaining comprehensive insurance coverage <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">so<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> you <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">can<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> confidently protect your investments <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">all summer long<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">So, if you\u2019re tired of piecing together coverage or worrying about what happens when a tenant trashes your unit, check out <\/span><strong><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/nreig.com\/?utm_source=BiggerPocketsBlog&amp;utm_medium=June&amp;utm_campaign=BiggerPockets2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">NREIG.com<\/span><\/a><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> and see what a tailored, investor-focused insurance partner can do for you.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You can\u2019t predict every issue, but you <\/span><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">can<\/span><\/em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> prepare for them.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This article is presented by National Real Estate Insurance Group Summer might mean beach trips, barbecues, and sunshine for most people, but for real estate investors, the warmer months also [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":613776,"featured_media":182791,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7401],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-183542","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-insurance"],"acf":[],"comment_count":0,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/183542","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/613776"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=183542"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/183542\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/182791"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=183542"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=183542"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=183542"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}