As you are aware, winterization season has begun in several states and more states to begin next month. We have recently released Memo 1127 Winterization Season Memo 2005-2006 highlighting guideline requirements.

In recent months we have received several HUD demand letters and non-performance letters disputing the validity of the winterization performed at properties. Review of these letters and property history usually confirms that the photos to support the work are sufficient. However, the M&M has found non-compliance issues upon inspection of the property post conveyance. To help reduce the occurrence of these letters and to offer additional training materials for our contractors we have put together the following list of steps to be shared with all of your office staff and crews in the field.

For Dry (forced air) systems, we perform what we refer to as a "system shut down". This includes the following steps:

• Flush all toilets.
• Turn water off at the curb. If not possible, shut the water off at the main interior water supply and provide reason. (Flush all toilets first.)
• Disconnect water meter and leave inside property (unless city/county requires that it be returned or does not allow it to be removed).
• Cap the disconnected feed pipe leading from the main water valve.
• Wells - Drain the pump if it is not submersible and drain the tank. Turn the well off at the circuit breaker.
• Drain Hot Water Heater and all domestic plumbing.
• All faucets/valves must be opened, drained, and then closed.
• Clean toilets and remove all water from bowls and tanks.
• Use air pressure to clear the system.
• Add anti-freeze to all toilets (bowls and tanks), sinks, traps, tubs, and dishwashers. A minimum of 2 gallons should be used per property.
• Affix tags (with date of winterization; name, address and phone # of firm that performed work) to all items winterized.

For Steam Heating System (has a steam boiler and radiators), we perform the following steps:

• Complete all steps listed above for a Dry system.
• Open all radiator vents. Inspect radiators for cracked pipes or broken valves.
• Do not remove bleeder pins from radiators.
• Drain the boiler.
• Perform a pressure test to determine if the system is operable and if there are any leaks.

For Radiant Heating System (has a hot water boiler, expansion tank, radiators or (copper) tubing in floor, walls, and/or ceilings), we perform the following steps:

• Complete all steps listed above for a Dry system.
• Pressurize the system with an air compressor to 35 PSI to check for system leaks. System must hold 35 pounds of pressure for a minimum of 30 minutes.
• Drain the boiler and all heating loops.
• Repair, replace, or install a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valve.
• Fill the boiler and all heating loops with a non-toxic anti-freeze (propylene-glycol) solution tested to a freeze point of -40 degrees or lower.
• Flush all lines and bleed all vents.
• Return the heating system to normal operating temperature and pressure.
• Check the entire system for proper operation.
• Leave the heat on and set the thermostat to 55 degrees.
• Tape the furnace electrical switch to the "on" position.
• Tape a card above the switch stating, "Do not remove tape. Do not turn off."
• Turn the water on.

Please remember to read the entire work order received from Safeguard, since several of our clients follow different standards. As always, you and your crews can call from site if unsure of the type of heating system or how to proceed with any of the steps above. Should you have any questions regarding the steps above, please contact our High Risk Manager, Steve Meyer (steve.meyer@safeguardproperties.com, or ext. 1179).

Thank you for your continued cooperation and support.