Multi-family Investor · Columbus, IN · Member since 2013 · 69 posts · 25 votes
Having older rental houses in Indiana, I have several houses with drafty windows. I pay utilities on several of the multi units and over the last couple years have placed plastic sheeting on the outside of the windows during the winter months to help with heating and lower costs.
Talking to a relative recently it was mentioned that this could be a safety issue if someone were to have a fire. I can see the potential, but also see that since it is plastic, it could easily be cut or ripped off in the event of an emergency.
Wanted to get everyone's thoughts on this.
Thanks
Investor · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2015 · 117 posts · 39 votes
10y
Vinyl windows are very inexpensive. Easy to install. Add value to your property. Attract a better tenant. Save money on utilities. Tilt in for easy cleaning.
Residential Real Estate Broker · Cape Coral, FL · Member since 2014 · 39 posts · 12 votes
10y
Check your local building codes and tenant laws. If a fire breaks out and the tenant throws an object out the window for quick exit but that item qets caught in the open with in the plastic and remains trapped is the rest of what happens worth not replacing the windows.
Replace windows, caulk, paint, repair, raise the rent
Multi-family Investor · Columbus, IN · Member since 2013 · 69 posts · 25 votes
10y
Thanks everyone. I am hoping to get the windows replaced in the next couple years as I believe this is best in the long run. Hoping this will get it through this winter for now. I agree that it would also look better as well.