Hi there my little #StoreTroopers!
Winter is coming as John Snow was so fond of saying. As autumn turns into winter, it’s prime time for landlords to prep their properties for the colder months. Keeping things cosy and problem-free during winter isn’t just about being a good landlord; it also prevents costly emergency repairs down the line. Here’s a rundown of key maintenance tasks to keep your property in top shape, along with tips on how to handle them efficiently.
1. Gutter and Drain Maintenance
When autumn leaves start falling, they don’t just make for pretty Instagram shots – they can also clog up gutters and drains. Blocked gutters lead to overflowing water, which can freeze and create dangerously slippery paths or even damage walls. Clearing gutters is a must before winter kicks in.
Quick tip: Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the need for frequent cleaning. If you're feeling ambitious, DIY kits are readily available, but hiring a professional might be safer and faster.
2. Roof Checks
Cracked or missing roof tiles can allow water and damp to sneak into the property, causing a whole host of problems, from leaks to mould growth. Not the kind of festive surprise anyone wants. Inspect the roof for damage now, before the worst weather hits.
Efficiency hack: If you’re not keen on scrambling up a ladder, use a pair of binoculars to inspect the roof from the ground. For a more thorough check, call in a roofer. Regular roof inspections can catch small issues before they turn into costly disasters. Alternatively, use a small drone to see what is going on.
3. Boiler Service
Boilers love breaking down at the worst times – often right when tenants need them most. To avoid freezing tenants and expensive emergency callouts, get the boiler serviced before the real cold arrives. A boiler service not only ensures it’s running efficiently but also helps to avoid unexpected failures.
Handy hint: A service typically costs around £80-£120, but it’s well worth it. You could even look into a boiler cover plan if you want extra peace of mind.
4. Pipes and Insulation
Frozen pipes are a landlord’s worst nightmare. When the water inside freezes, it expands, potentially causing pipes to burst and flood the property. Make sure pipes, especially those in unheated spaces like lofts or basements, are insulated. Remind your tenants to keep the heating on at a low setting if they’re going away, to prevent pipes from freezing.
Pro tip: Foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install – a quick DIY job that can save you major headaches later on.
5. Window and Door Draught Proofing
Gaps around windows and doors aren’t just letting in cold air – they’re letting out precious heat! Check for any drafts and seal them up with weather stripping or draught excluders. Upgrading single-glazed windows to double glazing can significantly improve the property’s energy efficiency too.
Efficiency bonus: For a low-cost fix, foam strips and silicone sealant can block most draughts effectively.
6. Garden and Exterior Prep
Winter storms can wreak havoc on outdoor areas. Secure any garden furniture, trim back overgrown branches, and check fences for stability. Windy weather can turn unsecured items into missiles, damaging the property or neighbouring homes.
Simple solution: Ask your tenants to store garden furniture or offer to stow it for them in a shed or garage.
7. Tenant Communication
Keep your tenants in the loop. They should know how to report issues and where the stopcock is in case of emergency (like a burst pipe). If the property will be empty for a long stretch, ensure the tenants know to leave the heating on low and possibly turn off the water at the mains to prevent frozen pipes.
By tackling these essential tasks before the winter chill sets in, you’ll avoid most seasonal disasters and keep your tenants happy – because let’s face it, no one wants to deal with a boiler breakdown on Christmas Eve! A bit of pre-emptive care now means less hassle (and fewer emergency callouts) later. Happy maintaining!
Until next time, keep your investment compass steady and your dreams of property prosperity alive!
The Anonymous Investor.
*This blog post is for general information only and is not financial advice. Always speak to a financial advisor for guidance on your specific situation.
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