Winterization Mistakes Martha’s Vineyard Homeowners Should Avoid

Costly Errors That Property Managers Can Prevent

As the leaves fall and the Martha’s Vineyard season winds down, many homeowners head off-Island for the winter. But before you lock the door and catch that last ferry, it’s crucial to properly winterize your property. The Island’s coastal climate—with its mix of salt air, freezing temperatures, and powerful winter storms—can take a real toll on a home left unattended.

At PartnersMV Property Management and Cleaning, we see it every year: small oversights that lead to big, expensive problems. Here are some of the most common winterization mistakes Vineyard homeowners make—and how a professional property manager can prevent them.

1. Forgetting to Drain and Protect Plumbing Systems

Frozen or burst pipes are among the most damaging winter disasters. Even one missed water line can cause thousands in water damage.

What PartnersMV does:

• Properly drains and winterizes water systems.
• Monitors interior temperatures to prevent freezing.
• Checks plumbing during scheduled off-season inspections.
• With regular maintenance and professional oversight, you’ll avoid costly repairs and the nightmare of returning to a flooded home.

2. Ignoring Humidity and Mold Control

The Vineyard’s ocean air doesn’t disappear in winter—it gets trapped inside sealed homes. Without circulation and monitoring, humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors.

PartnersMV helps by:

• Monitoring humidity levels throughout the off-season.
• Running dehumidifiers and checking for leaks.
• Ensuring basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms remain dry and clean.
• A little attention now keeps your home fresh, healthy, and ready for spring.

3. Overlooking Roof, Gutter, and Drainage Maintenance

Clogged gutters and neglected roofs can lead to leaks, ice dams, and water intrusion. The damage often isn’t discovered until spring—by then, repairs can be extensive.

Our team inspects and maintains:

• Roofs, gutters, and downspouts before the first freeze.
• Drainage areas to ensure melting snow and rain flow properly.
• Post-storm conditions to catch any issues early.

4. Leaving Outdoor Furniture and Landscaping Unprotected

Outdoor spaces are part of Vineyard living, but winter exposure can ruin furniture, decks, and landscaping.

PartnersMV takes care of:

• Storing or covering outdoor furniture, grills, and décor.
• Winterizing irrigation systems.
• Protecting plants, gardens, and lawns from frost damage.
• By the time spring arrives, your outdoor spaces are clean, intact, and ready for use.

5. Skipping Routine Property Checks

Even a perfectly winterized home can run into unexpected issues—storm damage, power outages, or mechanical failures. Without someone local to check, these small problems can escalate quickly.

That’s why PartnersMV provides:

• Scheduled property inspections throughout the off-season.
• Detailed reports and photos for peace of mind.
• Immediate response to any maintenance or weather-related issues.
• Regular visits protect your investment and ensure your Vineyard home stays in top condition year-round.

Protect Your Vineyard Property This Winter

Winter on Martha’s Vineyard can be tough on homes—but with the right care, yours doesn’t have to suffer. Partner with PartnersMV Property Management and Cleaning for expert winterization, regular inspections, and professional maintenance that keeps your property safe, secure, and ready for your return.

📞 Call: (508) 989-8154
📧 Email: info@partnersmv.com
🌐 PartnersMV Property Management and Cleaning – Reliable, local, and always looking out for your Vineyard home.