Local estate agency Connells in Stourbridge is urging landlords to take action now and make sure their rental properties are ready for the colder months ahead.

With the coming season posing the risk of damage to many unprepared homes, the branch is advising landlords of their responsibility to ensure the safety of tenants, and has outlined the following top tips for landlords to assist with a safe, warm and problem-free winter:

1. Check the heating system – ensure all heating systems are fully working, bleed all radiators and, if necessary, service the boiler to prevent any nasty surprises during the cold weather;

2. Keep unoccupied properties warm – if your property is unoccupied, make sure the heating is left on a low setting or the system is drained down to avoid any issues with damp or damaged pipes when the heating is turned back on;

3. Repair damage to the outside of the house - check the brickwork for cracks, make sure there are no loose or missing tiles on the roof and ensure there is no damage or blockages to the drains and guttering. Problems often occur in these areas during wet and icy weather so they need to be checked regularly;

4. Maintain all greenery on the premises – make sure that all bushes and trees are trimmed and kept properly to prevent damage to the house and other properties and cars during storms and high winds;

5. Keep the drafts out - make sure lofts and walls are fully insulated and fit draft excluders to doors and windows for extra protection;

6. Sweep the chimney – if you regularly use an open fire throughout the winter it is necessary to have the chimney swept annually to avoid the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and chimney fires;

7. Check your insurance policy – it is vital to check exactly what your policy covers, and to come up with a plan of action should any urgent problems arise that aren’t covered under the insurance; 8. Speak to your tenants – communication is key when preparing for winter as your tenants will be able to tell you what work needs to be done and how urgent it is. You should also inform them of any work that is scheduled, and who to contact in an emergency.

“It is vital that landlords take their responsibility seriously and prepare their properties soon before winter really kicks in,” says Elizabeth Houghton, Lettings Manager at Connells in Stourbridge. “The problems that can arise are often not only very costly for landlords to fix, but can seriously affect the day-to-day lives of tenants. Don’t be left out in the cold - come in and see us if you need any help or advice on how to get your properties winter ready.”

Connells, Stourbridge can offer a range of lettings services and advice, from matching tenants to their ideal properties to full property management, rent collection and insurance advice. For further information please call the branch on 01384 396 606 or email stourbridgelet@connells.co.uk.