Preparing your properties for the Spring and Summer months
As the colder months finally drift away and the days grow longer, it’s the perfect time for landlords to conduct essential spring checks on their rental properties. After the winter’s harsh conditions, a little springtime maintenance will keep your property in tip-top shape, preventing costly repairs and ensuring your tenants have a comfortable and safe living space. Here’s a guide to the important checks every landlord should consider for their rental properties this spring.
1. Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Winter weather can create havoc with your property’s roof, with heavy rain, snow, and freezing temperatures causing damage. Spring is the perfect time to check your roof and gutters to ensure everything is in good condition.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts:
Over the winter, gutters can fill up with leaves, moss, and debris, causing blockages. Clear them out or contact us to help ensure water flows freely and prevent future damp or water damage inside the property.
Check Roof Tiles and Flashing:
Look for missing, cracked, or damaged roof tiles that could cause leaks during spring showers. Inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure they’re secure and watertight.
Inspect Chimneys and Vents:
If the property has a chimney, have it swept to ensure that no build-up of soot or blockages could cause fire hazards or poor ventilation in the months to come.
2. Test Heating and Cooling Systems
Now that the heating has been on all winter, it’s a good time to make sure everything is working properly as we move into warmer weather. Spring is also a great time to check any cooling systems, like air conditioning, in preparation for the summer months.
Boiler and Heating System:
Ensure the heating system is working properly and schedule a service if it’s due. Check radiators to make sure they’re still in good condition and are properly bled to prevent airlocks. We can arrange this for you and schedule regular checks with our seamless coordination service.
Air Conditioning (if applicable):
If your property has air conditioning or fans, inspect them to make sure they’re working ahead of warmer weather. Clean filters and check the system’s operation to ensure it’s ready for the hotter months.
3. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Your tenants’ safety is paramount, so regular checks of fire safety equipment are essential. Spring is an ideal time to ensure that all alarms or detectors are in working order. Our Property Aftercare service can cover all the following assessments and more.
Test Alarms:
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they’re functioning properly. Replace batteries if needed and make sure they’re positioned in compliance with safety regulations (e.g., on every floor and near sleeping areas).
Check Fire Extinguishers:
If the property has fire extinguishers, check the pressure gauge and expiry date to ensure they’re still functional and within serviceable limits.
4. Inspect for Damp and Mould
Spring can bring increased humidity, making it a good time to check your property for any signs of damp or mould, especially in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and basements.
Check for Damp:
Look for any visible signs of damp, such as discolouration on walls or ceilings, peeling wallpaper, or a musty smell. Make sure windows and doors are sealed properly to avoid water ingress.
Inspect Ventilation Systems:
Ensure that extractor fans, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, are working effectively to prevent moisture build-up.
Fix Leaks:
Check for any leaks in plumbing or around windows that could contribute to damp. Fixing these early can prevent more severe issues later in the year.
Why not book our team to do a property stock inspection on your behalf? We will then report back to you with any maintenance issues that we discover.
5. Check the Exterior of the Property
Spring is a great time to get outside and assess the condition of the property’s exterior. Over the winter, rain, snow, and wind can cause wear and tear, so it’s important to catch any issues early.
Inspect Windows and Doors:
Look for any gaps in seals or cracks in windowpanes. Repairing these will help improve energy efficiency and keep the property secure.
Check the Exterior Walls and Foundation:
Look for any cracks or signs of damage to the brickwork, render, or foundation. Addressing these issues early can help prevent more costly repairs in the future.
Paint and Maintenance:
If the property’s exterior needs painting or maintenance, this is a good time to do it, before the summer heat sets in.
6. Landscaping and Garden Maintenance
While the spring months bring blooming flowers and greenery, they also bring the need for upkeep in the garden and surrounding outdoor areas. Well-maintained gardens can enhance the curb appeal of your property, which is great for tenant retention and future lettings.
Mow the Lawn and Trim Plants:
Tidy up the garden by mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and cutting back overgrown plants. This helps to maintain a neat and pleasant appearance.
Check Fencing and Gates:
Inspect fences and gates for any signs of wear or damage caused by winter storms or high winds. Repair any broken panels or posts to ensure the property remains secure.
Clear Paths and Driveways:
Ensure pathways, driveways, and any other outdoor footpaths are clear of debris and in good condition to prevent trips or accidents.
Why not hire us to take care of your property aftercare? You’ll be assigned a dedicated Home Manager to assess your investment and take care of any ongoing maintenance required.
7. Inspect and Service Appliances
Spring is a great time to check all appliances in your rental property to ensure they’re functioning properly and efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns over the summer.
Fridges, Freezers, and Ovens:
Clean out fridges and freezers, ensuring they are defrosted, cleaned, and running efficiently. Check the oven and cooker to ensure they’re in good working order, with no damage to the knobs or settings.
Washing Machines and Dishwashers:
Inspect washing machines and dishwashers for any signs of wear and tear, making sure they’re functioning properly. Check hoses for leaks and clean any filters.
Appliance servicing is also part of the aftercare service that we offer.
8. Ensure Safety and Security
As the nights start to draw out, it’s also important to ensure your property is secure and safe for tenants.
Check Locks and Security Systems:
Make sure all windows and doors have working locks and are secure. If the property has a security system or alarm, test it to ensure it’s fully operational.
Outdoor Lighting:
Inspect any outdoor lighting to ensure walkways, driveways, and entrances are well-lit, enhancing security and safety for tenants.
9. Communicate with Tenants
Regular communication with tenants can help address any issues they might be experiencing and keep your property in great shape. Consider sending out a spring checklist to tenants, reminding them of their responsibilities (like maintaining garden areas or checking ventilation systems) and encouraging them to report any maintenance issues they may have noticed.
Provide Information on Seasonal Responsibilities:
Remind tenants of their duties during the warmer months, such as ventilating rooms to prevent condensation and ensuring the property is adequately secured.
Request Feedback:
Spring is also a great time to ask for tenant feedback on any maintenance issues or repairs they’ve noticed, ensuring you stay ahead of potential problems.
Conclusion
Spring is the perfect time for UK landlords to give their properties a thorough check-up. By performing these essential spring checks, you can ensure your property is in excellent condition, prevent costly repairs, and keep your tenants happy and comfortable. From roof inspections and heating system checks to garden maintenance and safety updates, taking these proactive steps will help you maintain your property’s value and provide your tenants with a pleasant, secure living environment throughout the warmer months.
If you need any help or advice with any of the subjects mentioned in this blog, please don’t hesitate to contact us at https://hilites.co.uk/contact