Landlord tips: Winter checklist
Now that we’re in the midst of the Autumn months, it’s time for landlords to begin planning winter maintenance for their rental property.
While always important throughout the whole year, a well maintained property will weather the storm (pardon the pun) of anything mother nature throws at it during the long, cold winter months.
We’ve put together an essential winter maintenance checklist for you to make sure your tenants are safe and comfortable, and that your rental property retains its value.
Insulation
Stop cold draughts by checking that the windows and doors close properly, and the seals are intact. If your rental is a house or a top floor apartment, check if there is sufficient loft insulation. You can also stop cold air coming through the letterbox by fitting a draught excluder.
Boiler service or upgrade
Has the boiler been serviced lately? It’s going to be working much harder through the cold months.Check out the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme to see if you’re eligible for a grant towards upgrading the boiler and heating system.
Gas safety checks
Make sure you know when these are due.You’ll need a gas safety certificate for all gas appliances and flues. It’s a legal requirement and each individual certificate must be renewed every year. You can arrange a gas safety check two months before your current certificate's expiry date while retaining that expiry date (a bit like a car MOT).Remember to give a copy of the new record to your tenant.
Radiators
Checkall radiators are working properly. All you need to do is turn on the heating system for a few hours, make sure the boiler is set correctly, and all thermostats are at maximum. After about 15 minutes, check that the radiators are heating up. If they’re not, you’ll need to hire an expert to get your system up and running ready for winter.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Check that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning. Check out our blog (Add link) on the new regulations, which came into effect 1st October. If you do not comply with these, you could be fined up to £5,000.
Pipes
Prevent burst pipes by insulating them before the temperature drops. This can be done by installing lagging (insulating foam tubes). Remember to check where applicable, any loft spaces, external cupboards, taps, and garages.
Extractor fans
Keeping your property well ventilated is particularly important in the winter months when condensation can lead to damp. Focus especially on air flow in the kitchen and bathroom areas.
Clear drains and gutters
Clear any build-up of leaves and debris from your gutters, downpipes and drains to prevent blockages in winter rainstorms. Also check that the gutters are in good condition and fix or replace those with cracks – this prevents your walls from being soaked if water flow is restricted, thereby reducing the likelihood of damp inside your house.
Prepare the exterior
Strong winds and winter rain can damage the exterior of your property and even pose the threat of damp to your interior. Check for cracks in render and walls, gaps around windows, and missing tiles and leaking roofs. You could also paint the exterior to minimise weaknesses like cracks or flaking.Also check the security lights are working, and that there are no cracks in the driveway or paving that a hard frost could worsen. It’s also worth keeping an eye on nearby trees or large shrubs to reduce the risk of them causing damage.
Security
As it gets darker earlier, it’s vital to make sure your property is properly secured, to help give your tenants additional piece of mind. Check or install outside lighting around the entrance points and repair any perimeter fencing and gates. And of course, ensure your property insurance is up to date.