Tips to Prepare your Property in Winter
It’s important for both landlords and tenants that proper precautions are taken to prepare your property in winter. The weather can cause serious discomfort and may have expensive repercussions.
Here’s a list of tips to follow over the winter period to avoid inconvenience and a potentially large repair bill.
Prevent Frozen Pipes and Condensation
To prevent frozen pipes. It’s advisable to leave the heating on at a low temperature or set a timer so that the house can stay warm. Maintaining a warm temperature will also help prevent condensation problems.
Keep the Property Ventilated
Condensation can be a real problem in cold weather. It can lead to mould, cause damage to paintwork, fixtures and fittings in the property. When cooking, keep a window or door open to make sure that warm air is properly circulated. If bathroom doesn’t have a ventilating extractor it would be advisable to open a window until the steam clears after baths and showers.
Keeping Warm
To keep the radiators warm from bottom to top they should be bleed regularly using the appropriate key to releases trapped air. This will allow hot water to fill every part of your radiator and warm the property more efficiently.
Stopcock Location
You should know here the water stopcock is located in the case of burst pipes or other plumbing emergency to turn off the mains water supply.
Clear Gutters and Drainpipes
It is important to keep gutters and drainpipes clear (leaves, moss etc.) and free of cracks to prevent overflows and water damage. If you are unaware of whether you have a responsibility to do this speak to your landlord if you think there is a problem which requires attention.
Contact Details of Landlord
Make sure you have an emergency number for your landlord to contact in case of an emergency. This will ensure quicker repairs if they need to be undertaken urgently.
Vacated Property
Lighting timers can also be a good way to deter burglars. It will require installation so best to consult with your landlord over this option.
If you have any other tips or comments please do so below…