Winter Maintenance Tips for Landlords | HomeKey Residential

As temperatures drop and the days get shorter, winter can be tough on rental properties. For landlords, now is the perfect time to prepare homes for the colder months — preventing costly issues later and keeping tenants comfortable through the season.

Here are the top five maintenance issues every landlord should tackle before winter — and how HomeKey Residential can help you stay ahead of them.

1. Heating and Boiler Checks

A faulty heating system is the last thing anyone wants in December. Annual boiler servicing and system checks are essential to prevent breakdowns, leaks, or efficiency losses.
We recommend testing all radiators, bleeding them if needed, and checking for any uneven heat distribution. HomeKey Residential can arrange Gas Safe inspections and full system servicing to keep your property compliant and tenants warm.

2. Gutter and Roof Maintenance

Fallen leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters, leading to water overflow and damp problems. Inspecting gutters and roofs before the weather turns saves both money and hassle.
We can organise or carry out gutter clearing, roof inspections, and minor repairs in-house — ensuring your property stays watertight all winter.

3. Electrical Safety and Lighting

With darker evenings, tenants rely more on lighting and heating systems. Check outdoor lighting, smoke alarms, and electrics are all working properly.
If your property hasn’t had an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) recently, now is the time. HomeKey Residential can coordinate full testing and certification at competitive rates.

4. Insulation and Draft Proofing

Good insulation isn’t just about tenant comfort — it reduces energy bills and protects your investment. Check loft insulation, window seals, and doors for drafts.
Simple improvements such as draft excluders or secondary glazing can make a big difference and show tenants you care about their living conditions.

5. Plumbing and Pipe Protection

Frozen or burst pipes can cause major damage. Lag exposed pipes, especially in lofts, garages, or exterior walls. Encourage tenants to keep low-level heating on during cold snaps to prevent freezing.

Stay Ahead with HomeKey Residential

At HomeKey Residential, we take a proactive approach to maintenance. Because we’re run by an engineer, we spot small issues before they become big repairs — saving landlords time, stress, and expense.
Our winter property audits cover heating, plumbing, safety checks, and general condition assessments, so your property stays in top shape year-round.

Book a HomeKey Residential Winter Property Check today and stay ahead of costly repairs.
Simple pricing, fast service, and engineer-backed expertise.
📅 Schedule Your Winter Check