Winter can be a worrying time for everyone – especially for landlords. The colder months present significant risks to rental properties, all of which could lead to costly problems. By taking some time to check over your property now, you can help to ensure a relaxing, disaster-free winter.
Follow our tips for getting your property ‘fighting fit’ this winter – both for your own peace of mind, and for that of your tenants…
1. Clean your gutters
Old leaves can collect in gutters and drains leading to blockages which can cause significant damage, so it’s best to clean them regularly. Consider investing in gutter leaf guards to help prevent your gutters from becoming blocked in future. Always try to clearyour gutters before frost has the chance to set in.
2. Look at your roof
Ensure the roof is in good shape. Strong winds in winter can definitely affect the condition of your roof. Cold weather can rapidly and ruthlessly expose any weakness in the roof structure – plus if there are any leaks, you could end up paying far more money for repairs so make sure that the roof is strong enough to deal with the forces of winter. A roof service every 5 years can help prevent damage.
3. Check the pipes
Blocked or leaking pipes can freeze during the cold months, then expand and burst causing potentially expensive water damage. Make sure that all pipes are in good order, and that they are properly secured to the walls. You should also check the brickwork around your property for cracks, which could potentially allow water in.
Remind tenants to periodically turn the heating on (using the timer system if one is available) if they go away over Christmas, in order to ensure that pipes don’t freeze.
4. Avoid damp and mould
Condensation can be a particular problem in winter when warm air generated in a property from everyday activities meets cooler surfaces. Unless the property is properly ventilated, this build-up of moisture can lead to mould growth. Damp and mould can cause long-term problems for your property.
Ensure that extractor fans in kitchens/bathrooms are working and encourage your tenants to open windows and not to dry their laundry indoors.
5. Think about insulation
A properly insulated property is an absolute must. Make sure that you check the basics, starting with obvious draft points. Invest in some draft excluder to keep doors and windows secure. Check the cladding around your boiler and pipes, and make sure that the taps don’t leak.
Show your tenant that you care about their well-being this winter – book a service for your heating system to ensure it’s working perfectly. This can also prevent unexpected bills and emergency call outs if something stops working.
6. “Bleed” your radiators
Bleeding your radiators can be very handy for guarding your boiler against typical winter problems and it’s a great way to warm up your property. By doing this, it releases any trapped air, allowing hot water to fill every part of your radiator and warm the property more efficiently.
Talk to your tenant about having them bleed the radiators and ensure you get the radiators serviced on an annual basis.
7. Make sure your tenants are informed
Well-informed tenants are the best protection against winter property damage. Don’t assume that your tenants know how to deal with the cold weather; many won’t. Always remember that it is your responsibility as a landlord to make sure they have the information they need.
Consider putting together an information pack for them, including things like the location of stopcocks, basic boiler operation, and so on.
8. Avoid winter void periods
Void periods are a major threat during the cold months. If you know that your rental property is likely to be empty over the winter, you need to make extra plans to ensure its upkeep and protect your investment.
Make sure that you visit regularly to open windows and check on the heating. If you can’t do this yourself, make sure that you arrange for someone else to visit.
If you decide to sell your rental property rather than hold onto it through a winter void, remember you can sell landlord to landlord absolutely free on The Landlord Link. List your property today.
9. Check your Insurance Policy
Winter is a good time to check your insurance. Make sure your landlord insurance is in place and that you’ve got all the cover you need.
Landlord buildings and contents insurance can pay for repairs if your rental property is damaged by something like a floor or a storm.