Keeping on Top of your Property Maintenance during the Pandemic

We are all aware that regular maintenance saves money in the long run and prevention is far better rather than having a boiler break down on a cold and wet night when expensive call-out fees for an emergency plumber are likely.

Of course, it is not just the central heating system – boilers, radiators, pipework etc which needs attention but other things such as doors, windows, locks, flooring, paintwork (inside and out), gutters, roof tiles, fencing, paths, gates – the list goes on.

If you introduce a schedule of inspection and maintenance, keeping an eye on these problem areas and tackling the matter before they become a major concern is the best way to avoid damage and expense.

Covid-19 Concerns:

Now, during the Covid-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to keep a property in good condition. Both landlord and tenants are facing difficult challenges and need to work together constructively; if the tenant is safe and comfortable and the landlord receives the regular rental payment, then both sides should remain happy with their agreement.

The landlord’s obligations to maintain the property have not changed and access for urgent or serious repairs should still be possible. You will need to establish prior to any visit if anyone is infected, self-isolating or shielding and if a visit is needed, then the Government guidelines regarding social distancing and PPE should be adhered to. If you have a number of properties or just one and are not currently able or comfortable in carrying out such maintenance or inspections, then using the safe services of UK Commercial Group could provide the answer.

If you keep the tenant informed of all the decisions you take regarding the property and keep copy correspondence, this should protect against future problems or property maintenance issues arising.