Winter-proofing your rental: energy efficiency and safety tips for December

December might be the month of festive cheer, but in other ways it can be downright miserable and sometimes even dangerous. Dark nights and bad weather can mean increased safety risks for both the property and its tenants. They are also a reminder of how important energy efficiency is to keep bills under control, especially if purse strings are already stretched for Christmas.
Check for winter risks
Clogged gutters or drainpipes could freeze during cold weather, leading to leaks and property damage. Loose roof tiles could be even more hazardous, potentially threatening life in addition to causing leaks. A thorough inspection during December will highlight any issues that could be a safety risk to your rental property or tenants.
Enable energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is critical at a time when bills can be at their highest and weather at its coldest. Servicing the boiler will help to improve heating efficiency and reduce the likelihood of a mid-winter failure. Bleeding radiators will eliminate cold spots. Upgrading insulation and draft proofing throughout the property will also help keep properties warmer and reduce running costs for whoever is paying the energy bill.
Pay attention to security
December can also be a good time to upgrade the security of your rental property to improve tenant safety. Motion-activated lights and smart doorbells can make intruders easier to detect. This is particularly important as the darker nights and more frequent absences from home over December, as well as the lure of a stack of handy gifts, can tempt thieves.
Gift tenants some good practice tips
Something going wrong in their property during December will be as much of a headache for tenants as it will be for you. Your tenants will also be keen to minimise costs and hassle. A handy tips guide may be useful and could include advice such as keeping the heating on low – even when not home – to prevent pipes from freezing and reminding them to properly ventilate the property to reduce condensation and subsequent mould risks.
Double-check smoke and CO alarms, fire blankets and extinguishers
Fire risks are highest in December, with a combination of inflammatory factors at play. Faulty lights can be a big culprit, especially if positioned near flammable objects or on a Christmas tree that has itself become a fire hazard because it’s not been properly watered. Meanwhile, burning candles or open fires could quickly set a property alight if not properly supervised.
The risk of kitchen fires also increases dramatically, especially as the cook might have had a sherry or two by the time roasting the Christmas turkey comes around. The provision of working smoke alarms and CO alarms is a legal obligation and tenants should test them monthly. However, if you haven’t replaced them recently, or if batteries might be running low, then now would be a good time to replace them. Fire extinguishers and fire blankets should also be checked.
Winterproofing your rental property in December is a great pre-emptive practice that will keep everyone happy – ensuring peace and goodwill for all.

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