Winter-Ready Rentals: Quick Dos & Don’ts for Tenants & Landlords

szadoryan
Oct 17
3 min read

Even in Los Angeles, our “mild” winters bring real rain, cooler nights, and moisture problems that can turn small issues into big headaches, leaks, condensation, and mold. Here’s a short, practical guide to help both tenants and landlords prepare now, so everyone stays safe, warm, and dry. For Tenants

Report issues early. Tell your landlord in writing about leaks, musty smells, soft spots in walls/ceilings, or windows/doors that don’t seal. Add photos and dates.
Cut indoor moisture. Use bathroom fans, open windows briefly after showers, and keep furniture a few inches from exterior walls to improve airflow.
Check heat and detectors. Test your heater, smoke alarms, and carbon-monoxide detectors; replace batteries if they’re tenant-supplied.
Protect your stuff. Consider renters insurance that covers water intrusion.
Use mats & door sweeps. Keep water and mud from tracking in and soaking floors.

Don’t

Don’t ignore small leaks. Drips turn into damage and mold fast.
Don’t block vents or heaters. That traps moisture and can be unsafe.
Don’t paint over mold. It hides the problem and can worsen air quality—report it.

For Landlords

Weather Proof. Inspect roofs, balconies, flashing, stucco/paint, window caulking, weather-strip doors, and overall exterior of the property for potential points of intrusion.
Clear drainage. Clean gutters/downspouts, confirm downspout extensions move water away from the building, and keep common-area drains free of debris.
Service heat & detectors. Schedule heater maintenance; ensure required heat is available and smoke/CO detectors are present and working.
Stop leaks fast. Aim for same-day assessment of active leaks and dry affected areas within 24–48 hours to reduce mold risk.
Communicate proactively. Share an after-hours number, response timelines, and what tenants should do during heavy rain.

Don’t

Don’t delay moisture remediation. Waiting increases damage (and costs).
Don’t rely on tenants to “monitor.” Verify repairs and complete final moisture checks.
Don’t forget exterior grading. Poor slope toward the building invites intrusion.

Shared Best Practices

Create a simple storm plan. Who to contact, where to put towels/buckets temporarily, how to shut off water if instructed.
Document everything. Photos, dates, and repair notes protect both sides.
Ventilate during/after storms. Briefly airing out when safe helps dry interiors.
Know when a unit is “untenantable.” Major leaks, no heat, or unsafe conditions may require temporary relocation under local rules, coordinate quickly and keep communication in writing.

If Issues Occur:

Report immediately (in writing) with photos/video.
Stabilize safely. Contain drips, move belongings, and avoid wet electrical.
Dry fast. Fans/dehumidifiers help; landlords should arrange professional drying for larger incidents within 24–48 hours.
Address the source, not just the stain. Fix the leak, then repair and, if needed, remediate mold per professional guidance.
Follow up. Confirm the area is dry and repairs are complete.

Important Disclaimer

This blog is for general informational purposes only and focuses on common winter-prep issues in Los Angeles–area rentals. It is not legal advice, and shouldn’t be relied on as a substitute for advice from a qualified attorney, licensed contractor, or your local housing/code agency. Laws and requirements can change and may vary by city (including Glendale), building type, and lease terms. The author/City makes no warranties about completeness or accuracy and assumes no responsibility for actions taken or not taken based on this content. Reading this post does not create any duty for the landlord, tenant, or City to inspect, repair, relocate, or respond.

If you believe your unit is unsafe or untenantable, contact your property owner/manager and your local code/housing agency for guidance. For Glendale-specific questions, contact the Glendale Rental Rights Program.