Landlords Responsibilities by Heather Hilder on October 17, 2016 “Landlords Responsibilities” Responsibilities and Maintenance Landlords responsibilities and maintenance go hand-in-hand. Your Tenants’ Health & Safety is paramount. Sadly, property maintenance is definitely the UNSEXY side of property ownership, but THE most important aspect when it comes to protecting your asset, and your Tenant. Letting Agents and Landlords LOVE properties in good condition. Well-cared for buildings and property take less management time (and you will have happier Tenants). Maintenance costs As a rough guide, you should set aside between 6 – 10% of all rent received just for maintenance. On a £1,250 rental income, this equates to £75 – £125 per month. Your Agent may propose that you set up a floating fund of similar amounts. This I wholeheartedly recommend. When a dripping tap needs replacement (around £50-70, for starters), you’ll avoid many phone calls asking for permission to carry out a repair. Maintenance Checklist As Autumn and Winter approach, you should now check (and this is not an exhaustive list): 1. Exterior Brickwork: Check pointing and remove ivy from the walls 2. Guttering: clear out those autumn leaves (your window cleaner may oblige) – you don’t want overflowing gutters causing damage to the building 3. Waste pipes and plumbing: I wish I had £0.20 for every time I’ve had to call out a plumber to deal with these problems. Leaks can cause extensive, and long-term, damage. Hot and cold water are bare necessities, and same-day repairs are essential. Frozen pipes – I shudder at the thought … 4. Wiring: No ifs or buts – MUST BE SAFE. Use an approved electrician ie NICEIC and get Portable Appliance Testing done regularly. Electric heaters and kettles will be much in use during the coldest months of the year and must be passed as safe. 5. Heating: Your Landlord Safety Certificate is required annually for Gas systems. 6. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Absolutely required with effect from 1 October 2015. At least one smoke alarm should be installed on every storey used as living accommodation. A carbon monoxide alarm must be installed in any room used as living accommodation where solid fuel if used. 7. Window Blinds Your Tenants will be closing window blinds in the dark evenings – the blinds are compliant, aren’t they? Arrange all the necessary checks before the start of the long winter months – prevention is better than cure! Call 01273 735237 to discuss any aspects of letting your property or email enquiries@callaways.co.uk.
