Property Management preparations for Autumn
We are into the final three months of 2020 and property managers are preparing for the change in weather, being sure that landlords obligations are adhered to and that tenants’ expectations are met.As the Government announce their three tier contingency plan, some parts of the UK will be under local restrictions, therefore it is important to ensure that Covid-19 Protocols are correctly adhered to when access is required for any maintenance or repairing issue that is required.
The following tips may be useful:-
1. The Heating System. A home does not feel homely when it’s cold outside, so this is the right time to ensure that boilers are serviced and that the radiators which will have been switched off for months, are working properly. Thermostats should be set to keep pipes warm and radiators that are not working effectively, may need bleeding.
As the smell of chimney smoke lingers in the evening air, be sure that wood burners and live fires are swept regularly. The reason for this increased frequency is that creosote is is given off by burning wood, which then attaches itself to the inside of the chimney. These deposits are highly flammable, and therefore need to be removed.
For a wood burner or coal fire remember that a fire guard is a requirement.
2. Condensation is a Tricky Issue. Condensation is often mistaken for damp, so it really must be kept in check. Condensation occurs when warm air collides with cold surfaces, so a key element here is to ensure that a property is properly ventilated. Opening windows and making use of extractor fans will further reduce any condensation from developing in a room. The following tips will help tenants reduce condensation:-
Ensure the washing machine is correctly vented
Avoid drying clothes on radiators or indoors
Close kitchen doors when cooking
Close bathroom doors when showering or running a bath
Use pan lids when cooking
Wipe down cold surfaces
Use extractor fans
Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate
3. Gutters and Down-Pipes. The issue here is debris and falling leaves, whatever anyone thinks, as much as the colour change in autumn is wonderful, leaves in gutters and down pipes will cause blockages and water damage as the water cannot properly drain away.
The tenancy agreement will stipulate who is responsible for ensuring the gutters are cleaned. Remember that working at height is a risk.
4. Paths and Access. Not that October brings a frost, however, rain always makes pathways slippery especially when covered in leaves. Block management companies will often ensure that leaves are removed from common areas outside apartment blocks, yet paths, paved areas and decking will be the tenants’ responsibility to keep free of debris.
A winter-warmer guide is always a useful reminder for both tenants and landlords and provides the necessary guidance both parties need to be aware of as the seasons change.