Winter is often the toughest season for rental properties. Cold temperatures, heavy rain, and shorter days can all take their toll on a home if it’s not properly prepared. For landlords, carrying out seasonal maintenance protects your investment and prevents costly repairs. For tenants, it helps keep the property safe, warm, and comfortable.
Here are the key areas both landlords and tenants should be aware of when it comes to essential winter maintenance.
1. Check and Service the Heating System
Landlords: Boilers should be serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This not only keeps them running efficiently but also ensures they meet safety requirements. Radiators may need bleeding, and thermostats should be tested to make sure they respond correctly.
Tenants: Ask your landlord or letting agent when the boiler was last serviced. If you notice any issues — unusual noises, lack of heat, or pressure drops — report them quickly so repairs can be arranged.
2. Protect Pipes from Freezing
Landlords: Insulate exposed pipes in lofts, garages, and external areas to prevent them freezing in very cold weather. Make sure tenants know where the stopcock is in case of an emergency.
Tenants: If you can, keep a low level of heating on during cold snaps, even if you’re away. If you spot a frozen pipe, don’t ignore it, contact your landlord or agent straight away before it bursts.
3. Clear Gutters and Drains
Landlords: Blocked gutters cause leaks, damp, and even structural damage if water overflows or freezes. Clearing out leaves and debris before winter sets in reduces the risk.
Tenants: If you see water pouring over a blocked gutter or a drain that isn’t flowing, let your landlord or agent know. Spotting the problem early can prevent damp inside the property.
4. Inspect the Roof and Loft
Landlords: Winter storms can exploit weaknesses in the roof. Missing or cracked tiles and poor insulation can quickly lead to leaks and heat loss. Arrange a roof inspection if needed.
Tenants: Keep an eye out for water marks on ceilings or draughts from the loft — they’re often early warning signs of roof problems.
5. Improve Insulation and Draught Proofing
Landlords: Good insulation reduces heating costs and improves EPC ratings. Loft insulation and draught-proofing around doors and windows are simple but effective measures.
Tenants: Use draught excluders or thermal curtains to keep heat in. If you notice gaps or persistent cold spots, raise them with your landlord.
6. Tackle Damp, Mould, and Condensation Early
Landlords: Provide adequate ventilation — extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms are essential. Dehumidifiers can also help in high-risk areas.
Tenants: Try to ventilate rooms daily, even in winter, and avoid drying clothes directly on radiators. If you see damp or mould developing, report it quickly before it spreads.
7. Check External Areas and Access
Landlords: Clear paths, steps, and driveways of hazards. Ensure outdoor lighting works, especially with shorter daylight hours. Secure sheds, outbuildings, and fences against storm damage.
Tenants: Be cautious when paths are icy or slippery. If lighting fails or outdoor areas become unsafe, let your landlord know promptly.
8. Safety Essentials for Winter
Landlords: Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, as heating systems and fires are used more often in winter.
Tenants: Make sure you know how to test alarms and replace batteries if needed. If an alarm isn’t working, contact your landlord immediately.
9. Communication Is Key
Landlords: A simple winter checklist for tenants goes a long way. Encouraging tenants to report problems early means repairs are smaller and cheaper.
Tenants: Don’t wait until an issue becomes urgent. Whether it’s a dripping tap, draughty window, or loss of heating, flag it up quickly.
The Bottom Line
Winter maintenance isn’t just about avoiding costly repairs, it’s about creating a safe, warm, and comfortable home. For landlords, proactive upkeep protects your property and avoids emergency callouts. For tenants, understanding how to spot and report issues helps keep daily life stress-free.
Handled well, winter doesn’t have to be a season of problems. With landlords, tenants, and letting agents working together, rental properties can stay in great condition right through to spring.
Maddie Lancaster is an ARLA qualified letting agent with over 10 years of experience in the UK rental market. Rent East Yorkshire specialises in property management services for landlords across the East Riding of Yorkshire.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Specific legal advice should be sought for particular circumstances.
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