Now is the perfect time to ensure your properties are well-prepared for the colder months. Here are some winter maintenance tips to maintain and add value to your or your client's properties during winter.
Plumbing and Guttering:
Winter brings rain, which can lead to overflowing gutters and water damage from leaks and exterior issues. Ensure your gutters, downpipes, and drains are clear of leaves and debris. Check for any needed repairs or cleaning. Inspect the flashings and roof for leaks or worn tiles to prevent water from seeping into the property. Consider installing leaf guards on the gutters and extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the property.
Dampness and Moisture:
Musty smells, mold, or water stains on walls, ceilings, or under carpets can indicate excess dampness. Remove any mold before winter begins and consider installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Prune back trees that block sunlight from the property. Inspect your properties for musty smells or signs of mold, especially in wardrobes, cupboards, and behind curtains. Ensure all extractor fans are in good working order. If you have a ventilation system, make sure the filter has been changed within the past 12 months.
Heating & Insulation:
A home with effective heating options is always a drawcard for tenants. Good heating sources include heat pumps, modern wood or wood pellet burners, and flued gas heaters. Avoid unflued gas heaters, as they can increase condensation. Thick, thermal-backed curtains can help keep the heat in and the cold out, reducing your tenants' heating bills. If you already have a heat pump, make sure to change the filter, get it annually serviced, and ensure the exterior unit is free from leaves, debris, and other obstructions. Insulation is mandatory under the Healthy Homes initiative, but did you know it degrades over time? A well-insulated home reduces dampness and condensation, providing a healthier living environment. It also retains heat more effectively, helping to lower heating bills. Regularly checking insulation levels is crucial to maintaining home quality.
Commentaires