Guide for Landlords and Tenants for preparing their properties for the winter months

1) Bleeding the radiators

Be aware of the impact well bled radiators will have on the heating in the property as well as the cost. Boilers lose pressure whilst they are turned off which reduces the amount of water running through the heating system.

You will notice this when the lower half of the radiator is steaming hot, and the top half is stone cold. This may cause the heating system to go into overdrive and potentially fail resulting in costly call out charges.

2)Gas and Electricity

Winter is the most expensive time for heating and energy bills. Now might be a good

time to switch suppliers if you are the bill payer to make sure you are on the best tariff.

3)Airflow and Ventilation

While it might seem like the best idea to keep all the windows shut to keep the heat in, this greatly increases the risk of condensation. That can lead to damp, which is something you really don’t want. To prepare your property for winter landlords should educate their tenants on the need for them to open windows strategically to ensure the best airflow through the whole house.

Tenants don’t need to keep them open all the time, but if they see condensation on any windows they should always wipe them down and open them for a short time to dry out the air in the property. If your property has a loft hatch open this once in a while to allow heated air to circulate. Preventing black mold from appearing.

4)Gutters

Tenants should keep an eye on the guttering and report to the agent or landlord if you are a tenant if you notice blockages or greenery growing out of them, If there is heavy rain, water may not be directed away from the house efficiently. If you are a landlord look for any sign of blockage or greenery growing out of the me during your inspection.

5)Drying Washing

Not all properties have the benefit of a tumble dryer and if this is the case for your property then drying washing indoors maybe the only option.

Make sure your tenants use drying racks suitable for this purpose and try not to apply the clothing directly to the radiators, make sure the area that they are drying laundry is adequately ventilated, making sure they use extractor fans where possible and opening windows, drying laundry with the windows closed and the heating on will trap to moisture inside and cause damp and mold.

6)Garden Exterior

Make sure all hedges, lawns and shrubs are in good seasonal order and trimmed

regularly, particularly any greenery growing close to the property.

LANDLORDS’ MAINTENANCE TIPS TO GET YOUR PROPERTY WINTER PROOF

1)Trim Trees

Prune any overgrown trees or shrubs before they become a hazard in winter

storms. Be sure to check if the trees are protected by preservation orders.

2)Boost Insulation

Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps to prevent heat

loss. Ensure your property’s loft is well insulated to avoid unnecessary heating

costs and prevent condensation and dampness.

3)Lag Water Tanks and Pipes

Insulate water tanks and pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting during

cold spells. This will keep the water hotter for longer and reduce heating costs.

4)Communicate with Tenants

Offer your tenants tips on staying warm and safe and encourage them to report

any issues like drafts or leaks immediately.

5)Provide Salt or Grit

Supply your tenants with salt or grit to help them keep paths and steps free of

ice, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

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