Mother Nature can't quite make up her mind right now what the weather will be like. One day we have torrential downpours, the next sunny weather and so one. However one thing is clear, as we approach winter things will be getting colder.
This presents some challenges for homeowners of rental properties who should ensure their dwellings are as well protected against the elements as they can be. Here are six tips for landlords to follow:
1. Service the boiler
It is the landlord's legal requirement to get the boiler serviced once a year to ensure it is performing correctly and is also safe. Servicing must be carried out by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer who will service the boiler. You are also required to ensure a gas safety check is carried out annually.
If the boiler breaks down during the winter and you have tenants in your property, you must legally carry out repairs to ensure it is working. This also includes the pipes and flue(s) which must also be repaired and maintained.
Silver Arch Property Solutions can help ensure your boiler is serviced by a registerd Gas Safe engineer, just contact us at info@silverarchps.co.uk and we will be happy to help.
2. Insulate pipes
Spending a few quid on some lagging can result in avoiding hundreds or even thousands in costs should your property pipes burst. Copper pipes are more likely to split in the winter especially in colder areas like garages or any pipes that run outside.
Lagging them is a very simple and very quick way to help protect pipes and potentially avoid damage this winter
You should also ensure your tenants know where the stoptap/stopcock is in the property in case of a leak and the need arises to quickly shut off the water.
3.Insulate the loft/roof
Loft insulation is not too expensive and can make a real difference to your rental property. Heat rises and will escape through the loft/roof space if not well insulated.
Loft insulation is also a key factor when carrying out energy performance certificate (EPC) surveys and can impact what rating your property receives.
Even if you already have it, it may need upgrading or renewing. Try to ensure the thickness is at least 250mm to 300mm.
4. Bleed radiators
Another obvious suggestion but we see it a lot in properties we carry out inventories or EPC surveys for your property. If radiators are not getting that warm or are hotter at the bottom than the top, this means air is trapped which is preventing water from fully circulating.
Use a radiator key to bleed the valve at the top of the radiator until water comes out. Make sure you have a bowl or jug underneath to stop water spilling onto the floor when all the air is out.
5. Secure the Property
If the property is unoccupied, carry out regular checks to ensure it is secure. This is also becoming increasingly important for insurance purposes. Simple measures like having the heating come on at a low temperature at set times will help prevent pipes from freezing. If you do this though, ensure there is adequate ventilation in the property or you may cause some mould and damp.
Having timers to turn side lamps on at set times will also help deter potential thieves or squatters from entering. This can be done using timer plugs or using smart bulbs which you can control from your phone.
If you require regular property checks, we offer these tailored to your frequency of checks needed. A digital photographic report is provided for your records. Check our vacant property check service information here and get in touch if you want to discuss more.
6. Clean the Gutters
A blocked gutter could lead to leaks or water getting into the walls which can cause damage. It does not take long to resolve.
If you do not fancy doing this job yourself, Silver Arch can help organise and take care of this for you. Simply contact us for more information.