Keeping a rental property in tip top shape is an all
year-round job. From summer to winter, every season presents its own challenges
and maintenance and repairs are an ongoing process. But it would be a mistake
to think of this as purely the landlord’s responsibility. Tenants too have
their role to play in ensuring their home is in the best possible condition, no
matter what the time of year.
Seasonal home maintenance for landlords and tenants
In this article we’ll look at practical steps you can take
to maintain your rental. And we’ll include tips for both landlords and tenants.
Winter
The most punishing season of the year. Properties will take
a pounding and the extreme variations in weather we see in the UK can take its
toll on any property during the winter months.
Landlords
·
Service the boiler and heating system. Demand is
obviously higher in winter and the boiler must be ready to meet the extra
workload.
·
Insolate and lag pipes before the frosts begin.
·
Service electrical appliances.
·
Repair cracked roof tiles.
Tenants
·
From the ground visually inspect the roof and
guttering for damage after storms and immediately report any issues to your
landlord.
·
Check your windows and doorways after rain to
ensure they’re still sealed.
·
Cut back any summer / autumnal growth in the
garden.
·
Make sure drainage points are clear of debris
and leaves.
·
Bleed radiators before the onset of the cold
spell.
·
Make sure any external and security lighting are
working fine.
Spring
Spring is a chance to recoup after the ravages of winter, but
there’s still some jobs to do.
Landlords
·
Thoroughly inspect the roof and chimney for
damage.
·
Clear guttering of winter debris.
·
Test smoke
alarms.
·
Prune trees and overhanging branches.
·
Remove any climbing plants which can damage
brickwork.
Tenants
·
Clean windows and doorframes.
·
Check fences and decking for damage and cracks.
·
Check external taps. Make sure they still work
and haven’t frozen over winter.
Summer
Everyone enjoys the summer sun, but there are lots of
maintenance jobs to do, especially in the garden.
Landlords
·
Thoroughly inspect the property and ensure it’s
free from pests. Fix any possible ingress routes for vermin and rodents.
·
Schedule any major maintenance or repair work
for the long summer days.
·
Service air conditioning units.
·
Repair external fencing and replace weak posts.
Tenants
·
Ongoing care
of the garden. Mowing, weeding and pruning regularly will keep outside
spaces in order.
·
Keep outdoor areas free from rubbish. The summer
months are peak season for pests and accumulated rubbish will attract them.
Autumn
Autumn is not only the time to wind down from summer but
also to prepare for the onrushing winter.
Landlords
·
Seal gaps in doors and windows.
·
Repair brickwork.
·
Clear autumnal leaf fall from guttering and shed
roofs.
Tenants
·
Wash windows and doorframes.
·
Ensure drainage points are clear from debris.
·
Do a final clear up of the garden before winter hits.
·
Check security
lights and replace bulbs where necessary.
Landlords – for only £12 a month you can join our Good
Landlord scheme. Legal compliance, rent collection and finding tenants are all
taken care of. You can find more details here.
Tenants can find their ideal property faster
with MakeUrMove the online letting platform bringing landlords and tenants
together.
