Getting your home winter ready
As the weather turns colder and the nights draw in, it’s time to make sure your home is ready for the winter months. Every year, as property managers, we see the same seasonal issues for our tenants — boilers breaking down, gutters overflowing, and unwanted condensation appearing when the heating goes on.
A little preparation now can save a lot of stress later. Here’s our practical guide to help our tenants keep their homes warm, safe and problem-free this winter.
Check your boiler early
Autumn is “boiler season”. As central heating systems are used more often, plumbers get busier and callouts increase. Now’s the time to switch your heating on and make sure everything is working properly before temperatures drop.
It’s also a good opportunity to bleed your radiators, which helps them run efficiently and keeps your home evenly warm.
Clear gutters and drains
Blocked gutters may seem a small issue, but left alone they can lead to leaks or damp in your home. With more rain and falling leaves at this time of year, it’s important to clear gutters, downpipes and outside drains of debris, moss and leaves.
This simple job helps prevent water overflowing and protects your home from potential damage.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Your landlord must legally provide working smoke and CO detectors alarms at the start of your tenancy. However, regular testing is your responsibility. We recommend checking alarms weekly and keeping spare batteries ready.
If an alarm isn’t working, report it to your landlord or managing agent straight away so it can be replaced.
Let us know if you’ll be away
If you’re going away for more than 28 days, please let your landlord or managing agent know. This is often a condition of your tenancy and helps ensure the property remains protected while you’re away.
It also allows the landlord to notify their insurer and, if necessary, arrange occasional checks or emergency access.
Maintain outdoor areas
A tidy garden isn’t just nice to look at — it helps prevent problems in bad weather. Put away outdoor furniture, trim back trees and shrubs, and keep paths clear and clean to reduce the risk of damage or slips when frost sets in.
A few minutes’ attention now can save you a lot of hassle later.
Save energy where you can
Energy bills tend to rise as the heating goes on, but there are many small ways to keep costs down. For practical, up-to-date advice, visit Money Saving Expert’s guide to energy saving: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/energy-saving-tips/
Simple changes such as using draught excluders, setting timers effectively and closing curtains at night can make a real difference.
Keep on top of condensation
Condensation happens when warm, moist air meets cold surfaces — a common issue in winter. If left unchecked, it can lead to mould growth. To manage it effectively:
- Heating: Keep a steady, comfortable temperature rather than big swings of heat and cold.
- Ventilation: Open windows regularly, especially after cooking or showering. Leaving trickle vents open or windows on a secure latch overnight can also help.
- Moisture control: Try to dry clothes outside or near an open window.
- Dehumidifiers: Consider using one — many are energy efficient and effective at reducing humidity.
- Regular checks: Wipe away condensation promptly and clean any affected areas using suitable cleaning products.
These small steps can help maintain a healthy environment and protect your home from damage.
Don’t forget the clocks!
A simple reminder — the clocks go back on Sunday 26th October.
Final thoughts
A bit of routine maintenance goes a long way. By preparing your home for winter, you’ll stay warm and comfortable, help prevent common seasonal issues, and avoid unnecessary repair callouts.
If you notice anything unusual or need advice, please contact your property manager — we’re here to help.
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