As managing agents, we understand the importance of helping our tenants prepare their homes for the cold winter months. Ensuring that your rental property is winter-ready guarantees your comfort and prevents potential issues that can arise from the winter weather. This comprehensive checklist advises you, our valued tenants, to get your rental property ready for winter.
For emergencies or immediate assistance, please visit our Emergency Contact Page.
1. Heating System Check 🔥❄️:
The heart of winter comfort lies in a functioning heating system. Here are some vital steps to ensure your heating system is ready to keep you warm:
- Professional Inspection: Your property will already have an in-date gas safety certificate, but should one be about to expire, we will, of course, be in touch to organise a new one for you.
- Thermostat Check: Ensure that your thermostats are working accurately and that you know how to operate them efficiently. Offering guidelines on setting the thermostat can help prevent frozen pipes without increasing energy bills unnecessarily.
2. Running The Heating System:
Even if your boiler is providing hot water, running the heating system is also essential. This helps identify any issues with the radiators or heating distribution. Sometimes, heating systems are zoned, and individual radiators may require attention.
3. Check All Radiators 🌡️:
To ensure every room stays warm during winter, check that all radiators are heating correctly. Turn on the heating, and carefully touch each radiator after some time. If any part of a radiator feels cooler than the rest, it may need bleeding.
4. Bleeding Radiators 💨:
Bleeding a radiator is a simple process to remove trapped air, allowing hot water to flow freely and heat the room effectively. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn off the heating system to avoid scalding.
- Locate the radiator bleed valve, typically at the top of the radiator on one side.
- Place a towel or container under the valve to catch any water.
- Using a radiator key or a flat-blade screwdriver, slowly turn the valve anti-clockwise until you hear a hissing sound. This is the air escaping.
- Once the water starts to flow steadily without air, tighten the valve.
- Check all radiators in the property, as air can accumulate in any of them.
If you need a radiator bleeding key, you can grab them HERE.
5. Condensate Boiler – Extra Checks 🚿❄️:
If your rental property has a new condensing boiler, there’s an additional check to perform to prevent freezing:
- Locate the condensate drainpipe, usually a plastic pipe exiting the property. It might be near the boiler or outside.
- Ensure the pipe is clear of any obstructions or ice build-up. If necessary, gently pour warm (not boiling) water over the pipe to melt any ice.
- Regularly inspect and clear the pipe during cold spells to prevent disruptions in heating.
6. Insulation Assessment 🏠🔍:
Proper insulation plays a critical role in maintaining a warm and energy-efficient property. Examine windows, doors, and any potential gaps where drafts can enter. Reinforce weather stripping, seal cracks, and consider adding additional insulation if necessary. You can buy insulation strips to help fill any gaps, keep in the heat, or keep out the cold. CLICK HERE
7. Gutter and Roof Maintenance 🏠💨:
Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, debris, and ice dams to prevent water backups and potential damage. Inspect the roof (from the ground; if you walk to the back of the garden and look back at the roof, you can usually see any slipped tiles. Top tip: check the ground for fallen tiles) for loose or damaged tiles and address any issues promptly.
8. Plumbing Precautions 🚰❄️:
Protect your rental property from frozen pipes by insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas. Remember the importance of keeping a consistent indoor temperature during colder days to prevent pipes from freezing.
9. Outdoor Space Care 🏡❄️:
Winterize outdoor spaces by storing or covering patio furniture and garden equipment. Trim any overhanging branches that could potentially snap under the weight of snow or ice. Don’t forget your salt grit: CLICK HERE.
10. Communication 📞🏡:
Open lines of communication with us regarding winter-related property care are essential. We kindly remind you to keep the property adequately heated, avoid blocked ventilation, and promptly report any maintenance issues. Educated tenants are more likely to take preventive measures to protect the property during the winter.
11. Don’t Forget Your Windscreen Defrosting Spray 🚗❄️:
Lastly, don’t forget to buy your windscreen defrosting spray. It’s an essential item to keep your vehicle ready for winter. CLICK HERE
By following this comprehensive winter checklist, you, our valued tenants, can ensure that your rental properties are ready to face the challenges of the cold season. Taking these proactive steps not only ensures your comfort but also contributes to the overall safety and condition of the property. Stay warm and cosy this winter by being prepared! ❄️☕
As always, thanks for reading, and have a fabulous day!
Louis Orozco Lopez
