How to prepare your property for winter

It has been warned that the entire country is set for a horror freeze which will bring brutal winds and fierce blizzards in the coming months.

Temperatures have already started to plunge as cold air from the Arctic has swept across the UK in the past few days. The first long-range forecasts warn of ‘record-breaking snowfall’ next month.

Following these claims, we at Discount Landlord have put together a guide so you can carry out a property MOT to prepare for the cold months ahead. Here’s what you need to do.

Prevent burst pipes

Frozen pipes can cause major damage to your property. Pipes are more likely to burst when they are frozen, and this can cause flooding and water damage, which is expensive to repair.

You can minimise the potential for damage of this kind by making sure that all outside pipes are properly clad, this can be done by yourself and the material to do so is cheap and readily available.

If you notice cracks on pipes, make sure they are dealt with as a matter of urgency. These will only get worse, particularly in the cold weather.

Check the roof and gutters

Now is the time to ensure your roof is in a good state of repair. Look for cracked and broken tiles, cracks in the chimney or problems with the pointing.

If any repairs are needed, hire a roofing contractor to carry out the work as soon as possible. “Check your furnace and chimney are clear of obstructions, and get them cleaned annually by professionals,” says Steve Herbert, from the home emergency repairs business Homeserve.

Ensure that your gutters and piping are clear of leaves and other debris that has built up in them. This will reduce the risk of blocks and overflows.

Give your garden the once-over

Secure loose objects such as dustbins and garden furniture to protect items from strong winds and storms. Where possible, store items in a shed or garage. Keep gates and outbuildings doors fastened securely, and check that trees close to your property have been trimmed and maintained.

Get your chimney swept

Chimney fires can not only cause thousands of pounds in damage, but also a loss of rental income whilst the property is being repaired, and more importantly could cause serious harm or death.

It is vital to get your chimney swept at least once a year to protect your tenants and your property.

Check outside lighting

If your property has outside lighting, make sure that this is working properly. This can be particularly important if the property has steps or other features that might make it difficult to get around when dark or slippery.  You might consider leaving a spare bulb for the tenants, and letting them know how to change it.

Service your boiler            

You have a range of legal responsibilities when it comes to the boiler in your property, including a requirement to secure an up-to-date CORGI certificate.

You should have your boiler serviced before the wintry months begin. As well as keeping your tenants warm, a properly working boiler will help to ensure that your pipes do not freeze.

Clean the Gutters

Whether your gutters have become part of your garden or have simply accumulated a season’s worth of fallen leaves, get them cleaned out before winter rain and snow arrives.

After scooping out leaves and debris, flush the gutters and downspouts with a strong stream of water from a hose. Make sure the gutter sits against the house properly and repair any cracks or damage.

Winter property maintenance might seem like a hassle, but it is very much part of a landlord’s job. By taking a few simple steps before the cold weather sets in, you can help to minimise the potential for bigger problems later on.

Should anything go wrong with your property this winter, and you have insurance with Discount Landlord – here is our number: 020 8847 8000

Gaurav Ahluwalia