From September through November, fire season in California is in full swing and when a wildfire hits it’s not uncommon for a home to catch fire and go up in flames fast.

If you own rental properties in the Central Valley, now is the right time to take action and do everything you can do to protect your rental properties from fire.

How To Protect Your Rental Property During Fire Season

1. Design smart landscaping, using gravel walkways between sections of vegetation to create firebreaks. Choose plants that are high in moisture (like aloe) or fire-resistant (like French lavender); and avoid flammable trees like conifers. Keep grass short; trim dead branches; and remove unnecessary shrubs and thin trees.

2. Restrict open burning when it’s windy, dry, and hot.

3. Choose fire-resistant materials when it’s time for a new roof, deck, fence, or siding. For existing structures, apply a fire-retardant coating.

4. Clear debris from roofs & gutters, since dry leaves and branches are ready fuel for windblown embers.

5. Consider roof-mounted sprinkler systems, which may qualify for FEMA grants in your state.

6. Store combustible materials safely. Don’t keep items like gas containers where they could heat up or tip over. A cool, dark, ventilated storage area away from residential structures is ideal.

7. Establish communication procedures between staff and residents for imminent threats, and hold safety drills periodically.

8. Make sure you’re covered. If a home is at an elevated level of risk, property insurance companies may help with risk assessment and wildfire prevention efforts. Make sure that tenants have renters insurance for what’s inside their homes, too.

Hire A Central Valley Property Manager

Are you tired of managing your rental properties yourself? If so, contact RPM Central Valley by calling us at (209) 572-2222 or click here to connect with us online.