Landlord Guide: Maintaining a Vacant Rental Property During Winter

Winter can bring its own set of challenges for maintaining a rental property, especially if it’s vacant, but with some planning and proactive measures, you can safeguard your investment and ensure a smooth transition into the warmer months.

Here are some tips to help ensure your rental stays in good condition during the winter months:

Inspections:

Schedule in regular inspections so you can identify any potential issues sooner rather than later. Check for leaks, drafts, or signs of dampness.

Make sure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent drafts and heat loss.

Heating and Ventilation:

Keeping the heating system on a low will prevent the property from getting too cold. This can help avoid issues like frozen or worse burst pipes.

Ensure that the property is well-ventilated too, you want to prevent condensation and mould –consider using dehumidifiers if needed.

Water Management:

Insulate pipes to prevent freezing. If the property will be vacant for an extended period, you might want to consider draining the water system to avoid burst pipes.

Gutter Maintenance:

Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages. This will help water drain away properly and reduce the risk of water damage to the outside of your property.

Security:

Check that all windows and doors are secure to prevent break-ins. Consider buying timer lights to give the appearance that someone is home.

Inform neighbours and your property management team if you have one, so they can keep an eye on the property too.

Appliance Care:

Reduce energy consumption by unplugging non-essential appliances, this should also help to minimise the risk of electrical issues.

Empty and clean the refrigerator and leave the door ajar to prevent mould and odours.

Outdoor Space:

Cut back branches and remove any debris from the pavement to prevent damage during stormy weather.

If the property has a garden, try to keep it minimally maintained during the winter months. You don’t want to be tackling a jungle when you are looking to put tenants into the property.

Insurance Check:

Check that your insurance policy covers any potential winter-related damages and make any necessary adjustments if required.

Emergency Contact Information:

Provide a neighbour with emergency contact information in case they need to report any issues between inspections.

If you have a property management company, communicate with them regularly to stay informed about the property's condition. It's crucial to address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating. Additionally, make sure to comply with any legal obligations and responsibilities as a landlord in the UK.

Did you know? We offer three main types of services to Landlords. Let Only, Rent Collection, and Fully Managed — find out more here.

Need help with a rental property? our expert team will be happy to chat. Don’t delay, get in touch with us today!