Summer often means holidays, lighter evenings and spending more time outdoors. It also provides the perfect opportunity to carry out a few important property checks that are easy to put off during busier times of the year. Whether you are a homeowner or landlord, tackling small maintenance jobs now can help prevent more expensive problems later. A well maintained property is less likely to generate emergency repairs during the summer months and will be in a much better position for a future sale or re-let.

The Roof and Gutters

After a wet autumn, winter and spring, it's worth taking a few minutes to inspect your roof and gutters.  From ground level, look out for:

• Missing or cracked roof tiles
• Sagging or damaged gutters
• Moss build-up or visible signs of deterioration

Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of damp problems. When water cannot drain away properly, it can overflow onto walls, fascias and soffits, potentially leading to costly repairs.  For most properties, arranging a professional gutter clean during the summer is a relatively small expense that can help avoid much larger problems in the future.

The Boiler and Heating System

It may seem unusual to think about your heating in summer, but this is actually the ideal time to check your boiler.

If your annual service hasn't already been completed, now is the perfect opportunity to book it in. Any issues can be dealt with before the colder weather returns and before heating engineers become busier in the autumn.  Simple checks such as:

• Bleeding radiators
• Checking boiler pressure
• Ensuring the thermostat is working correctly

can all help prevent unexpected breakdowns later in the year.  For landlords, it's also important to ensure gas safety certificates remain up to date and that renewal dates are diarised well in advance.

The Electrics

Some of the simplest checks are also among the most important.  Take a few minutes to:

• Test smoke alarms
• Check carbon monoxide detectors are working
• Replace batteries where necessary
• Ensure alarms are fitted in the appropriate locations

These checks are particularly worthwhile if you're planning to spend time away from home during the summer.

For landlords, Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) remain a legal requirement every five years. It's sensible to check expiry dates well in advance and arrange renewals where necessary.  Any remedial works identified within an EICR must be completed within the required timescales, so planning ahead can avoid unnecessary stress and last-minute costs.

The Exterior and Garden

Summer is when the outside of your property receives the most attention.  Whether you are welcoming visitors, marketing your property for sale or preparing for new tenants, first impressions matter. Now is a great time to check:

• Fence panels and gates
• Brickwork, render and pointing
• Any damage caused during winter weather

Gardens also benefit from some mid-year maintenance.

Cutting back overgrown shrubs, removing dead plants and checking boundary fencing now can make a significant difference and reduce the amount of work needed later in the year.  A tidy, well-maintained garden also makes a property feel more inviting and enjoyable throughout the summer months.

Roof Lights and Windows

Properties with conservatories, roof lights or large glazed areas should have seals and frames checked periodically.

Look out for:

• Condensation between double-glazed panes
• Cracked seals
• Signs of rot or deterioration around frames
• Gaps around window edges

These issues are often relatively straightforward to address when identified early but can become more expensive if left untreated.  Dealing with maintenance now can also help avoid problems arising later during surveys or property transactions.

For Landlords: Mid-Tenancy Checks

Summer is also an ideal time for landlords to carry out routine property inspections, with the appropriate notice and cooperation from tenants.  A mid-tenancy visit can help identify small issues before they become major repairs. For example:

• Early signs of damp
• Slow-draining sinks or baths
• Blocked vents
• Minor maintenance concerns that may otherwise go unreported

Regular inspections also demonstrate to tenants that maintenance matters are taken seriously.  

In our experience at Richard Kendall Estate Agent, tenants are often more likely to report issues promptly when they know repairs will be dealt with efficiently. This benefits both the tenant and the landlord, helping protect the property and supporting longer, more successful tenancies. Sometimes, a few simple checks during the summer can prevent much bigger problems later on. A little time spent on maintenance now can save considerable expense and inconvenience in the months ahead.

For landlords and homeowners, our property management team can advise on what to prioritise this summer