Routine Maintenance Tasks For Landlords
If you own a property you rent out or lease to an individual or business, you are responsible for maintaining your property and ensuring that it is in a habitable condition. This includes ensuring the property is structurally sound, safe, and free from hazards risking your tenants’ well-being. You must also promptly address and perform necessary repairs on the property, as failure to do so may result in legal action. To ensure compliance with regulations and foster a pleasant living environment for tenants, here are some essential routine maintenance tasks every landlord should perform.
Plumbing Inspections
Ensuring the plumbing system in your property is in top working order is essential. Without routine maintenance and repairs, you risk poor water quality as well as major, costly issues like water damage, which can lead to dampness and mould growth. Before letting your property, check for leaks, drips, and signs of water damage in sinks, toilets, and pipes. Hiring a reputable, licensed plumber to inspect your plumbing systems in professional detail is also worth the investment.
Appliance Checks
Not all landlords supply white goods in rental properties, but if you do, it is your responsibility to perform regular appliance inspections. Thorough inspections of provided appliances, including fridges, stoves, dishwashers, and washing machines, will ensure they function safely and efficiently. Furthermore, according to the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1994, all landlords must keep gas appliances, including gas cookers, in a safe working condition. Failure to comply with the Gas Safety Regulations is a serious offence, which could result in unlimited fines and/or six months of imprisonment.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As a landlord, you have a legal obligation to install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room of your property with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers). Additionally, at least one smoke alarm should be installed on every storey. Realistically, you should check the working order of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every time you visit the property, replacing the batteries as and when required. For added security and peace of mind, encourage your tenants to check their detectors on a monthly basis.
Roof and Gutters
Clogged gutters, caused by a build-up of debris, can impact effective rainwater drainage, causing costly damage to your property. Fortunately, you can prevent these issues by performing regular inspections of the roof and gutters for signs of damage or leaks. Early detection enables you to make timely repairs and avoid further problems down the line. Clearing the drains of leaves, twigs and animal carcasses is never a pleasant job; nevertheless, it is vital to prevent water overflow, which may cause damage to your property.
Electrical Safety
Regular electrical system safety checks are crucial to the well-being of your tenants and the functionality of your property. Along with inspecting all electrical outlets, switches, and wiring for signs of wear and damage, you should also obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years by law. This ensures that your electrical systems are safe and in good working order. Thermographic surveys are also worth investing in, as they detect abnormally high temperatures in your electrical installations, indicating potential problems and safety risks. You can read more about mandatory electrical safety inspections here.
Pest Control
Effective pest control is vital to maintain a clean and healthy living environment for your tenants. Not only that but pests, when left unchecked, can severely damage a property. As such, if you notice any telltale signs of a pest infestation, it is necessary to take immediate action and arrange for professional pest control services if required. Prompt action will help to prevent the infestation from spreading, whereas addressing the issue as soon as possible will ensure minimal damage to your property.
Heating Maintenance
The UK winters can be harsh. As per the 1985 Tenancy Act, you are obligated to supply reliable heat and hot water, carrying out repairs within a reasonable period of time. Regular heating maintenance ensures that the heating system in your property operates optimally, providing your tenants with a warm and comfortable living environment. Furthermore, well-maintained heating systems are more energy-efficient, reducing energy consumption and utility costs for both you and your tenants. Regular inspections can also help identify potential safety issues, such as gas leaks and fire safety hazards.