I’m sure you will have notice that some very cold weather is currently upon us, and unfortunately it is here to stay for a little while with snow falling around some parts of the country and snow forecast in other areas of the country too. For all property owners and tenants preparation for the cold snap should hopefully already be in full flow as there are a number of things you can do to ensure property safety.
Structural Safety and Pipes
Modern homes are built to be robust and withstand freezing temperatures, however some older properties may struggle in severely cold conditions if they are not looked after properly. Perhaps it will be worth investing in a structural survey if you have any doubts? It will also be extremely important to bear in mind a decent landlord insurance quote that will cover you in the event of seasonal damages.
In terms of the water pipes that run through your property, freezing temperatures can, naturally, cause the pipes to freeze, so it will be important to keep your heating on, at least very low, in order to make sure the pipes do not freeze. It may just be the case of turning it on for a few hours a day, and anyway, in such cold weather it may just be a necessity to have the heating on!
What to do Outdoors?
It’s not just the pipes internally that need looking after, it’s the external ones too! Guttering and drains can crack if they freeze so it will be important to make sure they are clear and clean and especially not broken as this could then cause a whole host of problems.
Furthermore, driveways and any paved areas outside your property can become slippery and dangerous due to ice. Therefore, if you own a property it may be worth investing in a bag of grit or a very large bag of salt to sprinkle across the surface. This will minimise the chance of anyone slipping over, and if you are landlord it will be in your best interests to ensure the safety of your tenants. Perhaps instruct them to get a bag of grit or salt and then reimburse them at the earliest convenience.
The winter weather can have an overwhelming impact on a property if it is not properly looked after. With some care and attention however, it will be more than possible to fight off the cold snap and prevent any damages befalling your property!