Top tips for Landlords: Winter Property Maintenance
During the winter months, it’s important that you pay extra attention to your property. Cold weather and lots of rain can exacerbate existing problems and pose a number of new threats. It is your responsibility to keep your property in tip-top condition whether or not it is currently being rented out. Keep reading for our top tips on how to maintain your property over the winter properly.
Clear out gutters
Along with autumn comes a lot of falling leaves. Beautiful as they are, they mustn’t sit stagnant in your property’s guttering. If they are left, they can cause blockages which over time can cause water damage and leaks. It is advised to check your guttering at least every six months, but more often can’t hurt over the winter.
While you’re up there, you may as well check on your roof. Look for any loose or missing tiles and shingles, which could cause a heavy leak in the future. Flat roofs are also prone to holding on to excess water and flushing the water away after heavy rain is also advised.
Check heating
If you currently have tenants, it’s a good idea to advise them to keep the heating in the rental property on. Maintaining the heating at a low level will stop pipes from freezing and consequently bursting.
It is also a good idea to bleed your radiators in the wintertime. Sometimes a property can feel cold simply because the radiators are not working properly. Bleeding a radiator involves releasing trapped air from the system, allowing the hot water to fill the radiator more effectively.
Boiler failure is also something to be aware of in the winter months. It is a good idea to get your boiler serviced every October so that any issues can be sorted out before the cold really sets in.
Check insulation
Also, check all the seals on the windows and doors. Check for any drafts and if the doors and windows all shut tightly, as this will stop cold air getting in and warm air escaping from the home. It is also advised to invest in some double pane windows. While this is a long-term investment, it will be well worth it in the long run.
Ensure ventilation
When a property is not properly ventilated during the winter, condensation can become a problem. This is why it’s important to make sure the property is being sufficiently aired, especially during the colder months. If not, you could encounter issues such as damp and mould on the walls and ceilings. Make sure your extractor fans are working and ask tenants to open windows occasionally to allow some fresh air into the property.
Check your insurance policy
During the winter, it can be worth adding cover for landlord home emergency and landlord boiler breakdown. Sometimes, a standard landlord insurance policy will not cover things like maintenance callouts, and therefore it is a good idea to get covered in this regard- especially during the wintertime. Adding some extra insurance will give you and your tenants some peace of mind through the colder season.
So, now you’re in the know of how to keep your property warm and dry throughout the winter months and well beyond!
