4 Simple External Checks To Get Your Rental Home Ready For Winter

We have put together 4 simple external checks that you can do to get your rental home ready for winter.

Check for peeling paint

If the outside of your home is painted, check that the paint is good all over. Look out for any patches where the paint is peeling or where it is stained.

If the house is not painted, look for areas where the bricks or pointwork (the cement between the bricks) is crumbling or flaking. This could be a sign of water damage and may need to be repaired.

Another sign of water damage could be where render is cracking or bulging and lifting away from the wall. If you spot this, please report it online immediately as this could also be a health and safety issue if it falls suddenly.

Any of these issues may be made worse by a heavy frost or icy weather. So please report them online as soon as you spot them.

Check vents for obstructions

To combat condensation and damp, houses need air to circulate freely. So check that air vents are kept clear. Remove any rubbish and sweep away any leaves that have been allowed to build up.

Some vents are higher up the building and less likely to be blocked by garden debris. But check that their covers are secure and that nothing has got stuck in the vent for your heating, tumble dryer or any kitchen or bathroom fans too. This will help to keep them working efficiently and save you money.

Check exterior lighting

Keep yourself and your property safe during the dark nights by ensuring that your external lighting is working properly. Ensure that it is targeted and bright enough to let you see any obstacles but not so bright that it disturbs your neighbours.

Use a timer for added security, to give the illusion that you are home when you are not there.

Check drains, pipes and gutters

Check that drains, pipes and gutters are clear and able to run freely. Remove any leaves and debris that have been allowed to accumulate.

Look out for water flowing out from the edge of the gutter, warped or bent gutters, damage to the roof, facias, pathways and patios. All could be a sign of water damage caused by a blocked gutter or drain.

Check too that downpipes are secured to the wall properly. This may cause rainwater to pool away from the drain and damage footpaths, patios and decking. Heavy winds can make this worse.

Report any of these issues online as soon as you spot them.

These are 4 Simple External Checks That You Can Do To Get Your Rental Home Ready For Winter. See also Winter Heating Checks For Your Rental Home and Is The Garden In Your Rental Property Ready For Winter?