Landlords - Are You Ready for the Winter?

This article by Stride on September 4th, 2013 covers how landlords should be ready for winter and check if their properties are still in good state and repair in the col weather.

Autumn is upon us with the temperatures cooling down and evenings closing in, it's the ideal time for landlords to check their properties are ready for the winter months.

Properties need to be in a good state of repair and able to cope with the rigours of the cold weather, while tenants may start to look elsewhere for somewhere to live if they find the house an unpleasantly cold one to live in, or too expensive to heat if bills are not included in the rent.

There are several steps that a landlord can take to ensure the home is ready for the colder weeks and months ahead, both on the inside and out.

Guttering is one area that needs looking at, not least as wind, rain and falling autumn leaves can turn a gutter or downpipe into a disaster area. Overflowing can cause water to seep into brickwork and stone, damaging this and causing damp. So these channels should be checked to ensure they are in good order and not blocked. In addition to this, check if any of the mortar is cracked, as this will only widen in the cold and wet.

Other outdoor problems can include blockages with rubbish, which can cause flooding, along with potential plant damage. This can include small things like moss growing in cracks. This needs removing and the cracks filling in, as the process of freeze-thaw can widen these through the natural effects of expansion and contraction.

Larger vegetation problems can include trees, where it is important to check that there are no branches that might fall in inclement weather. Not only do these pose a threat to life, limb and property, but they may also be a visual irritant to neighbours. Root problems should also be dealt with, although only in an emergency should the tree be felled.

Alongside the risk of damp, cold is a key issue that will drive tenants away and put prospective new ones off. It is important to ensure the roof tiles are all in place and loft insulation is a good way of keeping heat in. On snowy days it is easy to tell which homes have this. While some have white roofs, others are clear of the stuff and may have birds perching on them to keep their feet warm.

Insulation is also something that should be fitted in cavity walls, unless the house lacks these. Insulating a home is not expensive and will help slash energy bills.

Draughts are another issue too. It is no use having insulation to stop heat escaping through the walls or roof if it has an easy way out through a gap at the bottom of the door, or a loose window fitting.

Having a home that is warm and well-insulated means less chance of burst water pipes, cold homes and those living within suffering from poor health. By keeping a home snug and warm, it will instead offer tenants a haven they will enjoy retreating to in winter and prevent expensive repair bills that could have been avoided with better preparation.

Article Source: http://www.stride.co.uk/insurance-news-and-articles/commercial-insurance-articles/property-insurance/landlords-are-you-ready-for-the-winter-/176/