WINTER IS COMING: TOP TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY

As the East Midlands braces for colder weather, now is the time to prepare your rental property for winter. Taking proactive steps can protect your investment, keep tenants safe and comfortable, and help avoid costly emergencies. Here are our top ten tips to winter-proof your property:

1. Insulate Pipes

Frozen pipes can burst and cause serious damage. Insulating pipes with lagging, especially those in exposed or cold areas like garages or outside walls, can prevent this. If a pipe does freeze, gently thaw it using a hairdryer or hot water bottle. Bentons Fully Managed landlords can benefit from emergency home cover—contact our lettings team to learn more about this peace-of-mind service.
 

2. Know the Stop Tap Location

Ensure both you and your tenants know where the stop tap is located. Typically found under the kitchen sink, the stop tap shuts off the water mains in case of a burst pipe. Turning it clockwise will stop the water flow, helping to minimise damage in an emergency.
 

3. Insulate Your Loft

Good loft insulation not only keeps your property warm but also improves its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. Check that insulation is at least 270mm thick. A well-insulated loft can save on heating bills and future-proof your property for upcoming EPC regulations.
 

4. Clear Gutters and Drains

Fallen leaves can clog gutters, leading to water overflow and potential damp issues. Regularly clearing gutters ensures rainwater is efficiently directed away from the property, protecting walls and foundations from costly damage.
 

5. Seal Draughty Areas

Draughts around windows, doors, and letterboxes can lead to heat loss. Simple fixes like draught excluders or sealing gaps with foam strips can make a significant difference in keeping the property warm and energy-efficient.

 

6. Check and Bleed Radiators

Cold spots on radiators may indicate trapped air. Bleeding radiators is a straightforward way to improve heating efficiency. Use a radiator key to release the air, and don’t forget an old towel to catch any drips!

 

7. Keep the Property Warm

Encourage tenants to heat the property for at least an hour daily, even if they’re away over the festive period. This helps prevent frozen pipes and keeps the home warm and dry.

 

8. Check Boiler Pressure

A well-maintained boiler is essential in winter. Ensure the pressure gauge reads between one and two bars. If it’s outside this range, contact a Gas Safe engineer to adjust it.

 

9. Secure the Property

As nights grow longer, security becomes crucial, particularly if the property is vacant. Suggest tenants use timers for lamps to give the appearance of occupancy and set the heating to come on regularly to prevent frozen pipes.

 

10. Prepare Empty Properties

If the property will be unoccupied over winter, consider draining the heating system to prevent burst pipes. Alternatively, leave the heating on at a low setting to protect against freezing temperatures.

 

11. Emergency Preparedness

Ensure tenants know who to contact in an emergency and provide clear written instructions. It’s also wise to confirm they have spare keys to avoid any holiday mishaps. For landlords using Bentons Fully Managed services, our Property Managers handle all emergencies, leaving you stress-free during the festive season.

If you’re self-managing your rental property and would like to explore how Bentons could support you this winter and beyond, contact our team today. We’re here to help protect your property and provide a seamless experience for you and your tenants.

Ready to simplify winter property management? Get in touch on 01664 563892.