When it comes to maintaining a property, prevention really is better than cure. If you're a landlord, having a regular inspection and maintenance routine in place is key to keeping your property in good shape - and avoiding any unexpected, costly repairs.
A simple check inside and out just once or twice a year can help you spot issues early, before they develop into bigger, more expensive problems. Taking this proactive approach could save you hundreds - or even thousands - of pounds.
How much should you set aside for maintenance?
A good rule of thumb is to budget around 1% of your property's value annually. So if your rental is worth £350,000, expect to spend around £3,500 a year on upkeep and repairs. Of course, you won’t spend that full amount every year, but having the funds ready will give you peace of mind when larger jobs arise.
To help you stay on top of essential tasks, here’s a seasonal maintenance checklist to follow each year:
January / February
Once the worst of the winter has passed, it’s time for some key checks:
• Inspect roof tiles, guttering, fencing, and any outbuildings for winter damage.
• Look for signs of damp or mould on interior walls - especially near the floor and ceiling.
• Assess whether any rooms need redecoration or upgrades, and schedule that work for the warmer months.
May to August
During spring and summer:
• After any storms, inspect the garden and exterior for storm-related damage.
• With more frequent and intense rainfall due to climate change, it’s worth reviewing your property's drainage. Could it handle a heavy downpour? If not, consider upgrading it to prevent flooding.
September / October
Before winter sets in, spend some time making sure your property is secure and weather-ready:
• Clear gutters and drains of leaves and debris.
• Check guttering and downpipes for cracks or blockages.
• Inspect the roof for missing or damaged tiles and secure any loose flashing.
• Ensure doors and windows are sealed properly and locks are working.
• Confirm that all exposed pipework is insulated to avoid freezing.
• Book a boiler service and gas safety inspection - legally required every year for landlords.
• Every couple of years, flush the heating system to prevent blockages.
• Inspect and reinforce fencing as needed.
• Cut back overgrown trees and shrubs, and remove any unstable branches.
• Store or secure garden furniture to protect it from frost or storm damage.
A quick note on insurance:
Even if your property is insured, your claim could be reduced or denied if damage occurs due to poor maintenance. That’s why it’s crucial to keep detailed records of your inspections and save all receipts for any maintenance work.
Don’t forget tenant involvement
Whether you or your managing agent handle inspections, your tenants also have a role to play. Encourage them to take care of the property and report issues promptly. Staying on top of maintenance is especially important ahead of the Renters’ Rights Bill in England, which will introduce a new Decent Homes Standard.
Make sure tenants have:
• Emergency contacts for maintenance issues.
• Clear instructions on how to turn off the stopcock and main electricity supply.
• A reminder to:
o Ventilate bathrooms, kitchens, and areas used for drying clothes.
o Wipe down condensation and remove pooled water from windowsills.
o Heat the property regularly in colder months to prevent damp and mould.
o Let you or the managing agent know if they’ll be away for more than a week, so you can check the property during any bad weather.
At Leaders, our Fully Managed service includes routine inspections and reports, plus the coordination of any necessary maintenance work. To find your local branch, visit: leaders.co.uk/our-offices
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