The top 6 winter risks investors face, and how to navigate them

1. Fire hazards

As the temperature dips, and as tenants switch on heaters, light fireplaces, dry clothes indoors, burn candles and use more electrical appliances such as electric blankets, the chances of a home fire increases, says Ms Fox-Slater.

She says that, obviously, vigilance around heat sources is paramount, but there are a few things both landlords and agents can do too to help reduce the risks.

“Ensure an adequate number of suitable smoke alarms are correctly installed and positioned throughout the home, and they are tested regularly, including always during inspections,” says Ms Fox-Slater.

“Consider supplying fire extinguishers and fire blankets at the property, especially in kitchens, and explain to tenants how to use them correctly. Also, make sure fireplaces are in good working order. Get the chimney professionally cleaned, ensure the fireplace is properly ventilated and have the structural integrity of the brickwork, chimney and flue checked.”

2. Faulty appliances

Ms Fox-Slater says the cold and wet also brings risks associated with heating, from runaway fires to faulty appliances that emit toxic gases. 

“When it comes to fixed heating appliances, only authorised installers should be used and the appliances, whether gas, wood, oil or electric, should be checked and serviced regularly by qualified contractors,” she says.

“A lack of heating in winter also means unhappy tenants, so ensure any supplied heaters and hot water systems are working properly. Non-working or damaged heating appliances are often considered urgent by both tenants and the law, so get onto repairs quickly.”

3. Storms

It is important to note that whether your landlord clients’ storm damage claims are successful or not will often depend on whether the property has been adequately maintained, says Ms Fox-Slater.

“If owners or agents have not kept up to date with repairs, they could find part or all of their claim rejected.”

But she adds that it is pretty simple to get on top of basic winter maintenance.

• Get the roof checked for leaks and other damage like loose sheets or cracked tiles. Overhanging trees and branches should be professionally pruned.
• Damaged windows and doors need to be repaired.
• Ensure other structures that could take flight in heavy winds like pergolas, fences and sheds are soundly anchored.

4. Floods

Heavy rain can cause flooding, says Ms Fox-Slater, and not just for properties in flood-prone areas.

“While properties close to bodies of water have a higher risk of being caught up in an actual flood, any property can be inundated with water. While we can’t avoid the elements, landlords and agents should ensure the rental is properly maintained to help limit damage when bad weather descends.”

Again, she says it’s pretty intuitive to do.

• Make sure gutters and downpipes are free of debris and in good repair. Rainwater tanks should also be checked for soundness.
• Drains should be clear of blockages and free-flowing. As unsightly as they are, make sure pot plants are not placed over drainage grates.
• Ensure water drains away from the property. Install soakwells and grade the yard away from the home.

5. Mould

Ms Fox-Slater says the damp weather provides ideal growing conditions for mould.

She says that once mould spores appear, they can spread and ultimately cause both health problems and damage to the property.

“Mould outbreaks stemming from maintenance or structural issues are the responsibility of the landlord or agent to fix. If mould and mildew is present, have it professionally cleaned, find the cause of the outbreak – and get it sorted.

“If tenant action, or inaction, led to the mould forming, they are required to take care of it. Frequently, this is the result of poor ventilation practices like not putting the exhaust fan on when showering, or lack of cleaning like not properly drying out wet carpets. Remind tenants to air the home properly and clean damp areas.”

6. Liability claims

Cold and wet conditions can spell mishaps, which in turn can expose landlords to liability claims, Ms Fox-Slater says.

“Wet surfaces in and around the rental can cause slips and falls, and landlords can be held liable for the injury if the reason the water doesn’t disperse is found to be their fault. 

“In addition to making the premises slip-proof, also check stairs and walkways are safe and well-lit, supplied heaters are working properly, all on-site structures are safe and sound, and the property is secure.”