Let’s talk about the weather.
Specifically, let’s talk about Albuquerque’s climate and how it impacts the way you want to maintain your rental property. Here in Albuquerque, we have a semi-arid desert climate. This means our summers are hot and dry. Temperatures can soar beyond 90°F, with minimal rainfall during peak summer months. Our winters are cold and dry. While winters are relatively mild, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. There’s not a lot of humidity year-round. That dry air can accelerate wear and tear on specific property materials. We are also dealing with high UV exposure. Albuquerque’s higher elevation increases UV levels, which can affect both outdoor and indoor materials.
These factors create specific challenges when it comes to rental property maintenance, demanding a proactive approach to ensure tenant satisfaction and long-term property value.
Common Rental Property Maintenance Challenges in Albuquerque’s Climate
Here are the top ways Albuquerque’s climate can affect your rental property:
- Roof and Exterior Damage
Relentless sun and high UV exposure can weaken roofing materials over time, causing shingles to fade, crack, or deteriorate. Additionally, Albuquerque’s occasional hailstorms can lead to roof and exterior damage that demands immediate attention. Solutions include scheduled annual roof inspections to identify weather-related wear and tear. It’s also a good idea to opt for UV-resistant roofing materials, such as metal or specialized shingles, to prolong durability. Consider exterior finishes like stucco, which fare well in Albuquerque’s desert climate.
- HVAC System Strain
It’s no fun having tenants call to tell you that their air conditioning isn’t working. Especially if it’s a 97-degree day in August. Albuquerque’s hot summers can push HVAC systems to their limits as tenants rely heavily on air conditioning to stay cool. Without proper maintenance, these systems can suffer breakdowns when they’re needed most.
We recommend that our property management clients replace HVAC filters every 1–3 months to maintain system efficiency. We work with owners to schedule pre-summer inspections to ensure the system is functioning at peak capacity. We’re also consistently encouraging tenants to report HVAC issues promptly for faster resolution.
- Irrigation and Landscaping Challenges
The low annual rainfall and arid climate can make it tough to maintain lush landscaping. Traditional lawns often struggle here, increasing water bills and irrigation maintenance costs. Forget trying to have a rich, green lawn. Instead, drought-resistant landscaping (xeriscaping) should be installed to reduce water usage and withstand Albuquerque’s climate. Inspect irrigation systems regularly for leaks or malfunctions. And use native plants, which are well adapted to the local environment and require minimal upkeep.
- Foundation Concerns
Albuquerque’s sandy desert soils can shift due to fluctuating moisture levels, potentially leading to foundation cracks or settling issues. Install proper drainage systems to redirect water away from the property, and inspect the foundation annually for signs of cracking or shifting. If a tenant reports their doors are sticking or the floors feel uncertain, respond right away. These can signal foundation damage.
- Paint and Interior Wear
High UV exposure can cause fading and peeling on outdoor paint, while the dry air may lead to cracked caulking or interior warping of wood furniture or flooring. Use high-quality, UV-resistant paint on exterior surfaces when you can and reapply that paint every 5–7 years to maintain the appearance and protection of your property.
Don’t feel like you have to tackle climate-specific property maintenance on your own. Partnering with an Albuquerque property management company can save you time and ensure your property is well cared for year-round.
We’re that partner. Contact us at Bruni Karr Agency.
