Cold weather & houses: Why prevention is better than cure

From a property management perspective, here are a few areas to be mindful of: 

• Gutters, roofs and drainage systems (water damage can happen very suddenly and be costly to fix)
• Trees, fencing and outdoor structures that may be vulnerable during strong winds
• Safety issues relating to heating systems, fireplaces and smoke alarms
• Signs of mould, dampness or leaks that can compound into bigger problems
• Retaining walls and sloping blocks that may be affected by heavy rain
• A poorly insulated house can be uncomfortable for renters, who may look to move on

Water damage is one of the most common causes of winter property repairs, and the risk factors can easily be spotted by someone with experience who knows what to look for. This is why your property manager will recommend and undertake regular inspections; something as simple as a gutter-clearing job can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.  

The same applies to overhanging branches and old fences, which can cause significant damage during high winds. If you want to ensure your renters aren’t left without a safe place to live due to storm-related property damage, inspections and maintenance are key. 

Property managers who inspect properties during winter also look at what’s being used for heating and whether it is safe and compliant. This is the time of year to ensure smoke alarms are working, so you may receive a notification that a safety check is due. 

Your renter’s comfort is important as well; if the house is cold and draughty, even if you’re not legally required to make repairs, you may find they don’t want to stay beyond their lease. If they are good renters who you want to hold onto and there is a cost-effective way to keep the interior warmer during winter so they don’t start thinking about moving out, it’s worth exploring. 

As a rental property owner, winter can be a good time to check your insurance. Most policies require properties to be adequately maintained, and failing to address known issues could affect a future claim. 

While nobody can control the weather, a proactive approach to maintenance with the help of your property manager can help protect your investment and minimise unexpected bills.