It is not as if there is a quiet time of year for landlords, but winter can be a particularly hectic time of year for landlords. The colder weather and more challenging weather conditions place homes under more significant pressure, and it is likely tenants will have more cause for complaint in winter than in other seasons of the year.
We are pleased to say we have helped many Wembley landlords manage the needs and demands of their tenants. This is also the case for winter. It is essential to respond quickly to requests, but we also believe you should be as proactive as possible. Therefore, landlords should insulate their rental property for winter, and we are on hand to assist you with the process.
Homes lose a significant amount of heat through their roof and their external walls. If you can improve the insulation in these parts of your properties, you can significantly improve the warmth and comfort levels. Landlords know the importance of keeping tenants happy, and these quick and affordable tips will have a significant impact on your tenants.
Studies suggest a home loses around 35 per cent of its heat through external walls which are not adequately insulated. If your rental property was built between 1924 and 1982, there is a strong chance there is a cavity between the external and internal wall. If you insulate this gap, usually with cavity wall insulation, you help to retain heat energy in the house, assisting your tenant in lowering their energy bills.
Homes built after 1982 are likely to have cavity wall insulation in place, but it may not be as effective as it used to be. Therefore, there may still be some scope for improving the standard of insulation in your rental property.
As heat rises, it is natural that a lot of energy is loft through the roof of your house. Therefore, installing loft insulation rolls will help retain heat. If the tread of your insulation is not at least 11 inches, you may benefit from adding to your insulation.
If the property has been built after 1990, it should have adequate loft insulation, but there is no harm in checking the matter. You will also find loft insulation provides benefits all year round. While this insulation helps to retain heat in winter, it also keeps heat out in the summer months, making the rental property cooler.
If you want tenants to feel as though they are in greater control of the temperature in the rental property, install a thermostat. There is a lot to be said for people being able to see how much energy they use, and this will often help to lower energy bills. This tip is not as much about insulation, as using energy more effectively, but the outcome helps lower energy bills, which is of benefit.
If you are a Wembley landlord and you need assistance managing your rental property, please contact us today. At Smith Melzack, we are pleased to say we have helped many local landlords in Wembley, and we look forward to assisting you.
