Date Published 21 November 2025
Letting agents' body Propertymark is advising landlords and tenants to take proactive steps to prepare their homes for the colder months. Winter is one of the most common periods for property maintenance issues, including burst pipes, blocked gutters, condensation, and damp.
Nathan Emerson, Chief Economist at Propertymark, stated:
"A few hours spent preparing your home for winter can prevent the kind of damage we see every year once the frost sets in. Whether you own or rent, a basic property check helps protect your investment and your wellbeing."
Winter Property Checklist for Landlords:
• Check your heating system – Run your heating for short bursts before temperatures drop to ensure radiators and boilers are working efficiently. Arrange a professional service if necessary.
• Protect your pipes – Insulate exposed pipes, particularly in lofts and external areas, to prevent freezing and bursting. Make sure you know where your stopcock is in case of emergencies.
• Clear gutters and drains – Remove leaves and debris to prevent blockages that could lead to leaks and damp inside the property.
• Inspect your roof – Look for cracked or missing tiles and arrange repairs promptly to avoid water ingress.
• Seal drafts – Check around windows and doors for gaps and use draft excluders or sealant to retain heat and reduce energy costs.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms – Ensure alarms are fully operational, as increased heating and electrical use in winter can raise risks.
• Service appliances annually – Arrange for a Gas Safe–registered engineer to check boilers, fires, and cookers each year.
• Keep pathways safe – Clear leaves, moss, and ice from paths and driveways to prevent slips and falls.
• Avoid overloading electrics – Colder months often mean more appliances are plugged in. Overloading extension leads can cause overheating, melting insulation, or fires. Signs of overload include warm plugs, burning smells, or flickering lights. Always check the lead's maximum amp rating, avoid exceeding it, and never 'daisy-chain' leads.
Propertymark encourages landlords to carry out these checks and, where needed, seek advice from qualified property professionals to ensure homes remain safe, warm, and energy-efficient throughout winter.
As part of our specialised fully managed service, we ensure regular inspections are carried out at all properties, particularly during winter, keeping landlords fully informed about the condition of their homes and any required maintenance.
