Repairing Windows for Landlords

If you’re a landlord in Tucson, you’re already well aware that you’re responsible for maintaining a safe and habitable living environment for your tenants, and this legal responsibility includes keeping up with window maintenance.

If your building’s windows are sustaining normal wear and tear from routine life, you, the landlord, are responsible for the repairs. However, if window damage is clearly caused by the tenant’s negligence, the tenant is legally responsible for the repairs.

To help you stay in compliance, here’s a guide to proper window maintenance procedures for landlords in Tucson.

Common Window Issues

Window wear and tear is inevitable. The most common window malfunctions include broken glass, faulty seals, stuck/difficult operation, and drafts/energy efficiency.

Open Enclose has seen it all when it comes to window problems, and we’re experts at determining when window repairs are appropriate or window replacement is needed.

Factors we carefully consider include the age of the building/windows, the extent of the problem (is it all the windows or just one?), the expense of the repairs, and how effective repairs would be.

Assessment & Documentation

To help you avoid financial setbacks with your rental property, we recommend scheduling routine window inspections.

Taking regular documentation of your windows will help you stay on top of repairs. It will also protect you from damages that don’t fall under your purview.

DIY Repairs

Certain window repairs can be simple DIY projects, providing you have the proper materials and follow certain safety precautions.

Materials To Keep on Hand

Caulk, plastic water-proof material, waterproof tape (duct, Butyl), weather strips, putty knife, box cutter.

DIY Projects

• For drafty windows, securing weather strips around vulnerable areas can dramatically reduce drafts.
• A broken window can be temporarily sealed by covering the open area with hefty plastic and tape.
• To fix cracks, recaulking around window frames can help seal cracks and prevent water infiltration.
• For stuck windows, gently run a box cutter blade around the entire perimeter of the window, between the frame and window. Then, use a putty knife to gently pry the window away from the frame. When you can feel that the seal is broken, gently open the window.

Safety Precautions

Because most windows have glass panes, it’s important to take certain safety precautions.

• Never force a window open. You could cause the window to shatter.
• Wear sturdy work gloves to avoid cuts and scrapes.
• When in doubt, call a professional.

Professional Repairs

Many window problems require professional expertise to ensure the repair is done correctly and safely. Signs you need expert intervention can include:

• Condensation between panes, which indicates a break in the seal
• Extensive window rot
• Broken glass panes
• Stuck windows
• Window leaks from improper or faulty installation

Choosing a qualified window contractor is paramount to protecting your property. Open Enclose has over 30 years of expertise and a rock-solid industry reputation.

We guarantee all our work 100%, and every new window we install is backed by a lifetime warranty. Since window costs can add up fast, we always provide upfront, haggle-free pricing.

Replacement vs. Repair

Deciding whether to repair or replace a window can be challenging for a landlord. Factors to consider include:

• Age of windows
• Number of windows that need fixing
• Repair costs
• How effective repairs would be
• How long-lasting repairs would be

To help you weigh your options, Open Enclose gladly performs cost-benefit analyses.

While replacing windows can require a more significant upfront expense than repairing, new windows are also more energy-efficient and better functioning, which can save you money over the long run by curbing your building’s energy loss and repair expenditures.

Preventative Maintenance

Keeping up on window maintenance can pay off big by preventing problems. We recommend:

• Regular cleaning and lubrication: To help your windows glide and prevent sticking, use a cloth to wipe a silicon-based lubricant spray on the inside and outside window tracks, jam liner, and weatherstripping.
• Weatherstripping and caulking: Keep the elements outside, where they belong, by applying weatherstripping materials around your windows.
• Educate tenants on proper use: Giving tenants tips for opening/closing windows without forcing them and encouraging them to report issues early can help you stay on top of your window maintenance and keep tenants safe and comfortable.

Legal & Insurance Considerations

When considering window replacements and repairs, landlords also need to consider:

• Building codes and regulations: Arizona building codes specify how large windows need to be, their precise placement, and type of glass (tempered vs. non-tempered). Open Enclose has been Tucson’s top window contractor for over a decade and has intimate knowledge of all building codes to keep your rental units compliant.
• Liability issues: Arizona is a Strict Liability State, which, when put into the context of a window problem, could essentially mean that if a window issue caused injury to a tenant, the landlord could be found guilty of negligence even if they had every intention of fixing the problem. This ultimately means window issues require prompt attention.
• Insurance coverage for window damage: Landlords can also benefit from buying insurance coverage for window damages.

Budgeting for Window Repairs

Setting aside funds for maintenance can spare you financial stress when window repairs and other building repairs are suddenly needed.

If window replacement is your future goal, establishing a long-term savings plan can help you achieve your property renovation goals comfortably.

Choose Open Enclose for Window Repair & Replacement

Being proactive about window repairs is the smart approach for all Tucson landlords.

Keeping a close eye on your windows by taking regular inventory, performing DIY repairs when possible, educating tenants on proper window use, saving for future repairs, and buying insurance are all important steps you can take to protect your tenants and your investment.

Locally owned and operated, Open Enclose is your one-stop shop for top-quality window repairs and replacements in Tucson.

We’re “Openly the Best,” providing a 100% satisfaction guarantee, haggle-free/upfront pricing, and a lifetime warranty on new products we install.

For a free, no-obligation estimate, contact us today.