Take advantage of the summer weather and get ahead with maintenance on your rental property.
Summer isn’t just the perfect time for lazy picnics in the park and trips to the seaside.
The long, sunny days also make it an ideal opportunity for landlords to undertake important maintenance and safety checks.
So don’t wait until winter to discover that there’s an issue with your roof, boiler or gutters.
Be proactive and follow this checklist.
Roof and gutter inspection
Inspect the roof for problems such as broken tiles or leaks, and clear the gutters to prevent blockages.
If any issues are detected, rectify them early, as small defects can quickly escalate and cause costly damage.
Garden review
If neglected, plants, grass and weeds can run riot in summer.
Tenants are typically responsible for tasks such as mowing and weeding to prevent this from occurring.
If this is the case at your rental (it should be detailed in the tenancy agreement), remind tenants of their responsibilities.
Also, ensure that fences and sheds are structurally sound and sturdy enough to withstand heavy gusts.
Boiler check
Summer is a great time to get the boiler checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer (it’s a legal requirement for landlords to do this annually).
You should find it easier to get in touch with a qualified engineer, as they receive fewer emergency callouts during the warmer months.
Don’t forget also to bleed the radiators; this will mean the heating works more efficiently in winter.
Retrofitting
If you’ve been thinking about making changes at your buy-to-let to improve its energy performance rating, act now.
Whether you plan to install solar panels or a heat pump, or replace rickety windows, you can expect fewer delays to work in summer.
Look out for pests
When conducting your next periodic inspection, keep your eyes peeled for signs of pest infestations.
Summer is breeding season for lots of creepy critters, including bedbugs.
Other bugs to look out for include bird mites (if you’ve had a problem with birds nesting in your roof, be vigilant for these bloodsuckers) and wasps.
Get help
It’s wise to take good care of your buy-to-let. A property that is well-maintained is more likely to attract good tenants and hold its value.
To help you stay on top of maintenance and adhere to regulations regarding gas, electric and other safety checks, why not draw on the expertise of an experienced letting agent?
They can manage your property and protect your investment.
Contact us today to learn about our property management services.
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