4 Great Tips to Winter-proofing your Property

With winter well on the way there is an increase in the chance your property could develop an unnecessary maintenance issue, which can be costly and also lead to disputes with your tenants.

By following these tips now you and stop these occurring before they happen AND make your property more appealing to renters.

1. Check your loft insulation –many properties have either got little or no loft insulation making them an unattractive place to live. If your tenants let a property that costs a lot to heat they will be less likely to renew their tenancy agreement when it ends.

TIP: From just £15 you can increase the heating of your property and keep the tenants happy.

2. Check your pipes – pipes are costly if they leak or crack and this is more likely to happen in winter. With contracting and expanding happening as the water freezes and melts, these movements can ruin your pipes, especially if they are already damaged.

Make sure the pipes are in good order before you let your property as they are harder to repair once a tenant is living there.

TIP: Try insulating your pipes by using foam pipe insulation to stop them freezing

3. Check the central heating – Just as with point number one, poor central heating can lead to complaints and increased risks of losing a tenancy.

TIP: If your property’s heating is in good shape, show your tenants how to bleed radiators to save complications that may arise later.

4. Check your windows – once a property investment is known to be expensive to run, you will soon find it hard to let. One of the best ways is to invest in double glazing.

TIP: Try using a Secondary Glazing Film to help prevent heat loss as a cheaper temporary option.

BONUS TIP: Use a roll of self-adhesive Draught Excluding Foam to help heat loss through the frame.