Autumn property maintenance: don't let small problems become big bills
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Autumn property maintenance: don't let small problems become big bills
A blocked gutter in October can become a damp patch by January. A boiler that's been making odd noises can stop altogether on the coldest night of the year.
Gutters and downpipes. Once the leaves have dropped, gutters can quickly clog. When water can't drain away, it runs down the walls and can lead to damp inside. Have them cleared and check downpipes are flowing freely.
Boiler service. Heating engineers get much busier once the cold sets in. Booking a service now means any faults can be found and fixed before your tenants rely on the heating every day.
Gas safety certificate. If your annual gas safety check is due over the winter, it's often easier to arrange it alongside the boiler service.
Radiators. Cold spots at the top of a radiator usually mean it needs bleeding. Ask your tenants to let you know if any radiators aren't heating up properly.
Boiler pressure. A quick look at the pressure gauge can help spot a problem early. It's worth making sure your tenants know what normal looks like.
Condensation and damp. Colder weather means windows stay shut and moisture builds up. Check extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms are working, and look for early signs of damp or mould around windows and in corners.
Pipes. Pipes in lofts, garages and outside walls are most at risk of freezing. Lagging them is inexpensive and can prevent a burst pipe.
The stopcock. Make sure your tenants know where it is and that it turns easily. If a pipe does burst, finding it quickly can limit the damage.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Test them and replace batteries where needed. It only takes a minute.
Windows and doors. Draughts make a home harder to heat. Check seals and that windows and doors close properly.
Your tenants are often the first to notice when something isn't right. A dripping tap, a small damp patch or a radiator that won't warm up can all be early warning signs.
Our lettings team looks after more than 1,000 rental properties across the area, so we know what winter can bring.
