Winter proofing for landlords: Protecting your Leamington portfolio in 2026

Bright, well maintained rental property interior in Leamington Spa prepared for winter

Winter in Leamington Spa is beautiful but for landlords, it can also be brutal. Cold snaps, heavy rain, and older period homes can create the perfect storm for maintenance issues. And if problems aren’t addressed quickly, they can hurt your rental yield and tenant satisfaction.

At Martin & Co Leamington Spa, we know how important it is to protect your investment, especially through the colder months. That’s why we’ve put together this essential guide to landlord property maintenance in Leamington Spa for 2026.

Why winter maintenance matters for landlords

Small issues in winter can quickly become expensive repairs. Frozen pipes, leaks, mould and boiler breakdowns are not just inconvenient, they can lead to void periods, unhappy tenants, and even claims for compensation.

A well-maintained home is also more energy efficient, meaning lower bills for tenants and fewer complaints for you. That’s especially important as more renters prioritise warm, dry homes when choosing where to live.

Preventing damp in period rentals

Leamington Spa’s charm lies in its elegant Georgian and Victorian properties but these homes need extra care in winter.

Here’s how to prevent damp and condensation in older homes:

  • Check for cracks and broken seals around windows and doors

  • Clear gutters and drains to stop water building up

  • Encourage good ventilation with working extractor fans and open trickle vents

  • Use breathable paint in older properties, especially in kitchens and bathrooms

  • Check chimney stacks and flashing for signs of water ingress

We recommend annual damp checks for period rentals, especially if they haven’t been modernised with proper insulation or ventilation systems. Our Leamington Spa Property Management team can arrange this on your behalf and provide reports for your records.

Heating and insulation checks

A broken boiler in mid-January is every landlord’s nightmare. Stay ahead by:

  • Servicing the boiler before December

  • Bleeding radiators to ensure full heat output

  • Checking for draughts around doors, windows and floorboards

  • Upgrading insulation in lofts and walls where possible

Remember, as of 2025, landlords must meet minimum EPC rating C for new tenancies and from 2028, all tenancies. Investing in insulation now will help with compliance later.

Exterior and garden safety

Slippery paths and broken fences can pose a safety risk. To reduce liability:

  • Clear leaves and moss from paths and driveways

  • Fix loose paving or damaged garden steps

  • Secure fence panels before storms arrive

  • Check external lights are working for dark evenings

If your tenants are responsible for garden upkeep, it’s worth reminding them to cut back overhanging branches and avoid blocked drains during autumn.

Stay compliant with expert support

Managing a property through the winter can be time-consuming, especially if you live elsewhere or own multiple homes. That’s where Martin & Co Leamington Spa can help.

We work closely with reliable local contractors, so issues are resolved quickly keeping your tenants happy and your property protected.

Ready for winter 2026?

Whether you let a single flat or a portfolio of period homes, landlord property maintenance in Leamington Spa is essential this winter. A proactive approach can prevent costly problems and protect your yield as the weather turns colder.

Need help with damp prevention, compliance, or tenant support? Book a free consultation with our expert team today:

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