Here are ARLA's top tips for 'holiday-proofing' rental properties this winter are:
1. Don't ignore the small print
Find out what your tenancy agreement requires you to do when leaving a property vacant, as this can make a difference to your liability. Most agreements will reference a tenant requirement to take adequate measures to protect the property from issues like frozen pipes in colder weather. Your property letting agent can advise further.
2. Decide on responsibilities
If all of the tenants will be leaving the property vacant for any period of time, ensure that the last person to leave prepares the house for the unoccupied duration. Simple tasks like clearing out fridges/freezers and turning off electric devices at the wall can help prevent problems while you're away.
As most deposit repayments will be shared evenly at the end of a rental term, it is well worth ensuring everyone knows what needs to be done. This will reduce the chance of deposits being held due to a lack of preparedness. Speak to your property manager if in doubt.
3. Heating can be key
While the most effective way of heating a home will vary from property to property, tenants planning extended periods away should always remember to leave heating on at a low level. This will ensure pipes do not freeze and helps to prevent internal damp spreading within the property. In addition to this, if you have a loft, leave the hatch open to allow some warmer air to circulate around the tank.
If you do not leave heating on you may be well advised to turn off the water and drain the system. If this is your preferred course of action you are likely to need to get a qualified tradesman to carry this out. Speak to your property letting agency if you require further information.
4. Get to know your neighbours
It can be worthwhile to share an emergency contact phone number with a neighbour should something go wrong - either your number, or that of the property's managing agent, if there is one. This will speed up access to the property in the event of something like a pipe leak and is particularly important in flatted properties, where an issue in one flat could rapidly cause problems for other homes in the block.
5. Secure your property
If you will be away for a period of time over the winter months, make sure your rented home is fully secure before you leave. Simple measures such as ensuring all windows and doors are locked will deter opportunist thieves, while setting a light on a timer within the property can be an effective additional security measure.
Guidance on these issues could reasonably be expected if you were renting through an ARLA licensed agent. They would be aware of your tenancy conditions and in many cases would be able to provide details of the landlord's insurance requirements.