Winter in the UK can be harsh on homes, and rental properties are no exception. From freezing pipes to increased energy bills, small oversights can quickly become costly repairs. For landlords, the best way to avoid stress and protect property and tenants is to be proactive.
A structured checklist makes winter preparation easier to manage. Below, we have set out the key steps every landlord should take to keep their properties safe, warm, and efficient this winter.
Related: Nine tips to make your home cosy this winter
Heating and boiler checks
- Book a boiler service early: Arrange an annual service with a Gas Safe registered engineer before winter demand peaks. This is a legal requirement and ensures the system is running safely and efficiently.
- Bleed radiators: Remove trapped air to improve heating performance and lower energy costs.
- Test thermostats: Faulty thermostats waste energy and leave tenants uncomfortable. Confirm if they are accurate and responsive.
- Consider smart heating controls: Smart thermostats give tenants more control, reduce wasted energy, and often flag issues before they turn into breakdowns.
Protecting pipes and plumbing
- Lag exposed pipes: Insulate those in lofts, garages, and outdoor areas. Lagging costs little but prevents pipes from freezing and bursting.
- Show tenants the stopcock: Many tenants do not know how to shut off the water. A quick demonstration can prevent major flood damage.
- Encourage background heating: Advise tenants to maintain low, steady heating (12–15°C) during cold spells or when away from home to reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
Roof, gutter, and drainage checks
- Inspect the roof: Missing tiles and cracked flashing let water seep in, leading to damp. Schedule inspections in autumn.
- Clear gutters and downpipes: Remove leaves and debris before the first frost to stop blockages and ice dams.
- Check external drainage: Ensure gullies and drains are clear so heavy rainfall does not pool near the property’s foundations or basement.
Damp, mould, and condensation prevention
- Test extractor fans: Confirm they are working in kitchens and bathrooms, where steam builds up most.
- Seal cracks and gaps: Fill external cracks and window gaps that allow moisture to penetrate.
- Provide tenant guidance: Share a simple winter tips sheet advising tenants to ventilate daily, heat rooms consistently, and report damp patches quickly.
- Remember legal obligations: Under the Homes Act 2018, landlords are responsible if damp or mould arises from structural or ventilation issues.
Related: How to keep damp at bay in your home this winter
Safety and legal requirements
- Smoke alarms: Legally required on every floor of a rental property. Test them before winter and replace faulty units.
- Carbon monoxide detectors: Required near solid-fuel appliances and strongly recommended near gas boilers.
- Gas Safety Certificate: Renew annually with a Gas Safe registered engineer.
- Electrical checks: Ensure your Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is current (required at least every five years).
Improving insulation and energy efficiency
- Seal draughts: Modern draught-proofing around windows and doors makes homes warmer and reduces heating bills.
- Top up loft insulation: Insulation should be at least 270 mm thick. Poor insulation can waste up to 25% of a property’s heat.
- Upgrade glazing: Double or triple glazing reduces condensation, prevents heat loss, and improves EPC ratings.
- Highlight improvements: Let tenants know about upgrades. Energy-efficient homes attract tenants and reduce void periods.
Related: Top energy-saving tips for your home
Communication with tenants
- Provide a winter guide: A one-page sheet with simple tips on heating, ventilation, and emergency contacts helps avoid problems.
- Share emergency numbers: Make sure tenants know who to call if urgent issues arise.
- Encourage early reporting: A small drip or damp patch can become costly if ignored. Prompt communication prevents escalation.
Financial planning for winter maintenance
This unique step is often overlooked, but financial preparation is as important as physical checks.
- Budget for preventative maintenance: Allocate funds for services like boiler checks and gutter cleaning. Spending small amounts now prevents larger repair bills later.
- Review landlord insurance: Confirm your policy covers winter risks such as burst pipes, roof damage, and emergency call-outs.
- Keep emergency reserves: Setting aside a contingency fund means you are not caught off guard by sudden expenses.
- Track tax-deductible costs: Many maintenance expenses are tax-deductible. Keeping receipts helps with financial planning and reduces costs at year’s end.
FAQs for landlords
Q1. What should a landlord’s winter checklist include?
Boiler servicing, pipe insulation, roof and gutter checks, damp prevention, safety obligations, insulation improvements, tenant communication, and financial planning.
Q2. How often should boilers be serviced?
At least once a year, ideally in autumn before peak demand.
Q3. How can landlords prevent frozen pipes?
Lag exposed pipes, encourage background heating, repair leaks quickly, and show tenants where the stopcock is.
Q4. Who is responsible for damp and mould?
If it stems from structural or ventilation issues, landlords are responsible. Tenants must manage daily condensation.
Q5. What safety checks are essential in winter?
Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, gas safety certificates, and up-to-date electrical reports.
Q6. What makes the best winter checklist for landlords?
A proactive checklist that combines property checks, safety compliance, energy efficiency, tenant communication, and financial planning.
Martin & Co.’s key takeaways for landlords
Winter can be demanding for both landlords and tenants, but preparation makes all the difference. By following this checklist, you can prevent small issues from becoming major problems, protect your property’s value, and ensure tenants feel supported and secure.
At Martin & Co., we work with landlords across the UK to provide practical property management advice and hands-on support. If you would like expert help getting your property winter-ready, contact your local Martin & Co. office today.
