Tenants reminded of winter weather responsibilities
Posted by Jayne Codling
All landlords with property listed with residential lettings agents should take steps to make sure that it is protected from the effects of winter weather.
However, with landlords unable to keep a constant eye on their properties, tenants also need to take some responsibility when it comes to preventing damage to their rented house or flat occurring, particularly if going away for an extended period of time, the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) has said.
"Long-range predictions suggest that the UK is set for another harsh winter. Therefore, it would be pragmatic for tenants to consider ways to best prepare their property for cold spells," commented Ian Potter, ARLA's operations manager.
"This is particularly important for those who will be leaving their rented home vacant during the holiday period."
The organisation has provided a new guide for tenants detailing several tips to help guard against weather-related property damage.
It advises that the first thing the tenants should do is to check the details of their tenancy agreement to find out what their legal obligations are when it comes to leaving a property vacant.
Most agreements will require a tenant to take adequate measures to protect the property from issues like frozen pipes in colder weather.
Heating is one of the most important things to consider when going away during the winter, said ARLA.
It recommends leaving the heating on at a low temperature at all times as this will ensure pipes do not freeze and helps to prevent internal damp spreading within the property.
Furthermore, tenants should make sure their rented home is fully secure if leaving the property vacant by taking simple measures such as ensuring all windows and doors are locked and setting a light on a timer within the property.
"There are a few sensible steps that can be taken to ensure there are no unexpected problems over the winter period or any unwanted surprises when tenants return to their properties after a break," added Mr Potter.
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