If you’re considering, or in the process of re-letting your property, now is the perfect time to check how it has fared over the winter. You should take the opportunity to get it in tip top shape ready for the year ahead.
Even if you have a current tenant, please read on because some of the work will be appropriate for all situations.
In addition, if you’re a self-managing landlord you should also arrange to visit your property to see what work you should be completing to meet your tenancy agreement obligations. If you’d like some help our property management and or interior services teams could support you. Please speak to your local office to find out more about our services.
Here’s a handy checklist to make sure your property is set for the year:
✔ First impressions count. Weed and clean your path or driveway, tidy any borders and think about adding some potted plants to brighten things up.
✔ Make sure your front door is looking smart. If not, add a coat of paint.
✔ Declutter any entrance or hallway to create a welcoming space.
✔ Windows - including the frames and sills - are something tenants spot. Make sure they’re clean, crack free and well-painted.
✔ Check out the paintwork on the rest of the house too, fill in any dents or holes and give the walls a new coat of paint if needed.
✔ Check all your fixtures and fittings to make sure they’re in good working order, and make sure your gutters, downpipes, drains and soakaways aren’t blocked or slow-moving.
✔ If your property has air-conditioning, check the units now so that they are fully operational ready for when the temperature rises.
✔ Review ARLA Propertymark’s damp and mould factsheet to make sure you are doing all you can to reduce the risk of damp and mould.
✔ If your property is on the market, you should regularly tend to the garden. Mow the lawn, plant up your flower beds, check on any fencing and jet wash paving slabs to keep it looking well-looked after.
✔ If you have any outdoor furniture, make sure it’s survived the winter and refresh as needed.
✔ If you are responsible under your tenancy agreement for opening a swimming pool, make sure this is ready in time for your tenants to enjoy it when the weather gets warmer.
✔ Check the roof is in good shape. Look for any signs of leaks or loose tiles, clear out the gutters and check any airbricks or ventilation covers.
✔ Do a sweep for Japanese Knotweed. If you find it, you’ll need to speak to a specialist about having it treated or removed.
✔ Lastly, check all around the property and make sure you’re up to date with all your tenancy agreement obligations.
It’s more important than ever for landlords to present their properties in the best possible condition to attract the widest pool of tenants. Depending on your budget and timescales you may wish to read some further top tips for upgrades and refreshes that will help your property stand out from the rest.