Summer is often the calm before the storm.
The boiler isn’t working hard, the roof hasn’t been tested by weeks of wind and rain, and tradespeople usually have a little more flexibility in their diaries.
It’s the ideal time to get ahead.
Every year, as autumn approaches, demand for heating engineers, roofers, electricians and other contractors increases dramatically. Suddenly, routine maintenance becomes an urgent repair, and waiting times start to grow.
For landlords, a little planning now can prevent a lot of stress later.
Here are five jobs worth getting organised before the seasons change.
1. Arrange the boiler service
Few things generate a call from a tenant faster than a boiler that stops working on the first cold morning of the year.
A routine service during the summer allows any potential issues to be identified before the heating is needed every day.
It also helps the system run more efficiently, which can reduce energy consumption and improve reliability throughout the colder months.
Preventative maintenance is almost always less expensive than emergency repairs.
2. Check the roof and clear the gutters
Summer provides ideal conditions for carrying out external inspections.
Loose roof tiles, blocked gutters or damaged flashing may seem insignificant now, but once heavy rain and stronger winds arrive, they can quickly become much larger problems.
A simple inspection can often identify minor issues before they develop into water damage or costly repairs.
It’s also generally easier to book roofing contractors before autumn demand begins to build.
3. Take advantage of the better weather outside
Many exterior maintenance jobs are easier, quicker and more effective during warmer, drier months.
This could include:
- Repairing or replacing fencing.
- Repainting external timber.
- Repointing brickwork.
- Repairing gates.
- Tidying paths and outside areas.
Leaving these jobs until late autumn often means dealing with unpredictable weather and busier contractor schedules.
Getting ahead now usually saves both time and inconvenience.
4. Test your safety equipment
Some maintenance tasks take only a few minutes but make a significant difference.
Checking smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, replacing batteries where necessary and ensuring everything is operating correctly is a simple but worthwhile habit.
Safety equipment should never be an afterthought.
Regular testing helps ensure the property remains prepared and provides reassurance for everyone living there.
5. Carry out a routine property inspection
Even the most conscientious tenants won’t notice every developing issue.
A dripping tap may not seem important.
Neither might a window that’s becoming difficult to close or a small crack in external sealant.
Routine inspections help identify these smaller problems before they become larger and more expensive.
They’re also an opportunity to check that the property continues to meet expectations and remains well maintained.
Don’t forget to review the bigger picture
Maintenance is only one part of protecting a rental investment.
It’s also worth taking time to review how the property compares with others in the local market.
Have rental values changed?
Are tenants looking for different features than they were a few years ago?
Would a modest improvement increase the property’s appeal or help reduce future maintenance costs?
Taking stock once or twice a year can help landlords make better-informed decisions and avoid reacting under pressure later.
A proactive approach usually costs less
Property ownership is full of unexpected expenses.
The challenge isn’t avoiding every repair. That’s unrealistic.
The goal is to reduce the number of emergencies by dealing with smaller issues before they escalate.
Planning maintenance during quieter months often means greater contractor availability, more competitive pricing and less disruption for tenants.
At Location Location East, we believe informed property owners make better long-term decisions.
As founding members of the Ethical Agent Network, we support sharing practical, straightforward advice that helps homeowners and landlords protect their investments while creating better homes for the people who live in them.
A little preparation today could make the months ahead considerably less stressful.
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
