Extreme Weather Advice for Agents and tenants

With unpredictable weather here in the UK, it's good for you to know what to tell your tenants and ask them to check -

We are often asked about tenants’ responsibilities during extreme weather conditions, so we have put together some helpful tips and advice.

CHECK THE PIPES IN FREEZING CONDITIONS

It is important that you check all external pipes for breaks, leaks, and blockages. Blocked or leaking pipes can freeze during the cold months, then expand and burst, causing potentially expensive water damage. Check the cladding around your boiler and pipes, and make sure that taps and faucets do not leak.

Make sure that all pipes are in good order, and that they are properly secured to the walls. You should also check the brickwork around the property for cracks, which could potentially allow water in. If damage to your home has occurred as a result of bad weather, it is important that you check the terms in your tenancy agreement. Do not assume that the landlord will cover costs – especially to personal belongings.

THINK ABOUT INSULATION

A properly insulated property is an absolute must. It controls the heat transfer in a building, helping to keep the heat in the home during winter and keeps the hot air out in the summer, making it more energy efficient. It slows down the time it takes for the heat on the outside walls and roof to infiltrate.

THINK ABOUT VENTILATION

A well-ventilated property is just as important as having a well-insulated property. Make sure that you check the basics, starting with obvious draft points. Some draft excluders can keep the doors and windows secure. Draughts should be your landlord’s priority. During heatwaves, good airflow throughout the building is essential to trap the cooler air in and let the hot air out. Check for broken seals on windows and gaps under doors, between floorboards and skirtings – particularly around radiator pipes.

It is the tenant’s responsibility to provide curtains and blinds that fir correctly – especially against windows with direct sunlight. You may benefit from black-out or thermal options to maintain the required temperature.

Check for issues with your internal ventilation, such as damp and mold, damaged boilers and window seals, These issues should be resolved asap by reporting via the Tenant Portal with supporting photos.

IF YOU ARE AWAY FROM HOME

Please inform your managing agent or landlord if you are away for extended periods, so they can visit regularly to open windows and check on the heating, or, alternatively, ensure that you arrange for someone trusted to visit. It is the tenant’s responsibility to make sure the pipes do not freeze during colder months. It may be good practice to set a timer, so the heating comes on during colder times of the day (early morning and evening).

BLEED YOUR RADIATORS

An advisable way to warm up your property is to bleed the radiators.

This releases any trapped air, allowing hot water to fill every part of your radiator and warm the property more efficiently

BOILER

You have more than likely already been using your heating, but if not, please leave the heating on low for longer periods of time, as this will save you money and prevent the pipes from freezing.

INSULATE INTERNAL PIPES AND THOSE LEADING TO AN OUTDOOR TAP WITH LAGGING FOAM

This will help to reduce heat loss and stop them from freezing, which often leads to burst pipes and subsequent major damage to property. Having heating on at least one a day can help to keep pipes from freezing. You should also be aware of where the stop cock is, in case of an emergency.

FLOODING

Flooding can not only damage your building, but also your personal belongings. Ensure your contents insurance covers water damage.

If any weather-related damage occurs, you should contact your managing agent or landlord via the Tenant Portal, using time and date stamped photos and fully document the extent of the damage. They will then arrange for the appropriate maintenance company to be called out to you.

STORM DAMAGE

Storms are not unusual in the UK. Over the past decade, property owners have seen some of the worst weather damage on record, with many suffering with uninsured losses due to torrential rain, gale-force winds, and flooding, so you must ensure that any damage is reported to your managing agent or landlord straight away, as incidents such as tiles blowing from roofs, or flooding can lead to internal damage. Damaged fencing can also compromise the security of your property. Use your Tenant Portal to photograph and record any storm damage. We cannot always predict exactly what weather there is to come, or the severity, but it is helpful to be aware of changing weather conditions to prepare you before it hits.

ROOF

Tenants should ensure the roof is properly insulated to prevent snow melting into guttering and refreezing. Check for loose roofing tiles, and for any cracks, holes and blockages in guttering and drainpipes. Drains on the ground should also be clear. If you’re able to access the loft, check that you cannot see daylight through the roof.

BRICKWORK

Check for cracks, holes or damage to mortar or brickwork that could potentially let water in, which can expand and cause damage to the property.?

GARDENS

Gardens must be well maintained, no matter what the time of year. Lawns must be kept tidy, pulling up any weeds from paths around the property, and cleaning up regularly after pets, if you have any. Treat any ponds or water features to keep them clear of algae and blanket weed.

During high winds, dismantle or weigh down any garden furniture and apparatus, and move light pots and hanging baskets, into a garden shed, or against a wall, or to a more secure location.

Check for any broken or weakened tree branches and keep trees and bushes pruned, making them less prone to the dangers of storm damage.

Check fence panels and posts are secure and repair any loose or rotten fixings.

During extreme heat conditions, keep gardens well maintained