Keeping A Rental in Tip-Top Shape This Summer: Advice for Landlords and Tenants

Summer is the perfect time to kick back, relax - and tackle a few important chores around the home. 

Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, it’s always good, as the saying goes, ‘to make hay while the sun shines’ and tick a few important tasks off your to-do list in the warmer months. 

Here are some important jobs to get done this summer 

Tenants 

Garden duties 

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden or outdoor space, check your tenancy agreement to see what’s expected of you in terms of upkeep. Shrubs, plants and weeds can really take off in the warmer months, so stay on top of tasks such as watering, mowing or weeding. 

Be on bug alert 

The last thing you want is an influx of creepy crawlies cramping your summer style, so ensure all bins are firmly closed and that food waste is not left lying around. Place leftovers in sealed containers in the fridge. 

Outsmart burglars 

Unfortunately, burglars often find rich pickings in summer as people tend to leave their windows and doors open to let the cool air in. (Be particularly wary if you’re on the ground floor.) Also, ensure sheds are secured and that hedges or bushes, which can become overgrown in summer, don’t provide cover for opportunistic criminals. 

Landlords 

Plan ahead 

Now is the time to take the initiative and tackle essential maintenance, such as fixing loose roof tiles or repairing temperamental boilers. Without wishing to be the bearer of bad news, in a few months’ time, any minor property niggles could be exacerbated by rain and cold. You’ll also find it easier to get hold of a good roofer or heating engineer in summer because they get fewer emergency call-outs. 

Mid-year inspections 

Use your mid-year routine inspection as an opportunity to check that all window and door locks, alarms, and extractor fans are in good working order. Also, clear out gutters and fix wobbly fences (don’t wait for winter and a heavy gust to strike). 

Energy improvements 

Even though the new rules regarding Energy Performance Certificates are still some way off (all rentals will need a rating of C by October 2030), it’s good to start preparing for the change now. If you’ve been mulling over retrofitting your rental by adding solar panels or double-glazed windows, take action in the warmer months. 

If you’d like to know more about how we bring tenants and landlords together and help manage tenancies, contact us today.