Preparing buy-to-let properties for the Winter months
The winter months are nearly upon us and if we have similar conditions as the last few years, rental properties can become a drain on Landlords cash flow. As Landlords, we are in the business to make profit and preparing buy-to-let properties for the winter is a good way of protecting cash flow. It may be as easy as going through a checklist. Here's ours;
- 1. Boiler serviced
- 2. Central Heating checked and radiators bled
- 3. Fireplace Chimneys swept
- 4. Aerial checked secure
- 5. Exterior doors and windows fitting and in good condition
- 6. Gutters Cleared
- 7. Drain covers fit
- 8. Decking and block paving jet washed to avoid slips and spills
- 9. Outlet areas secured to prevent rodent ingress (they like staying warm)
- 10. Fences secured where loose
- 11. Smoke and carbon monoxide detector installed and working
- 12. Exposed plumbing pipes insulated
- 13. Trees, shrubbery well away from property
- 14. Tenants informed and understand which on this list they are responsible for