As a UK landlord, managing a property involves more than just collecting rent. To ensure your properties remain in top condition, meet legal requirements, and keep your tenants happy, regular maintenance is key.
Having the right service providers on speed dial can save you time, money, and headaches. Whether you’re managing multiple units or a single high-value property, it’s important to build a network of reliable professionals who can handle everything from routine checks to emergency repairs.
Here’s a guide to the essential property maintenance services every landlord should keep handy.
Plumbing Services
Plumbing issues can cause major disruptions to your tenants’ comfort and lead to costly damage if not dealt with quickly. Leaky pipes, clogged drains, or faulty water heaters may seem like minor issues at first, but they can quickly escalate into expensive problems. A proactive plumbing service can prevent emergencies before they occur. “Landlords often wait until a leak becomes a full-blown emergency, but many of these issues can be spotted during routine inspections,” says a spokesperson from Plumber Watford Hertfordshire. “A regular plumbing check can catch small faults before they turn into costly callouts or tenant complaints.”
When you’re likely to need it
Plumbing issues often arise unexpectedly, but routine checks can help catch potential problems early. You’ll need a plumber when tenants report low water pressure, leaks, or clogs. If a property has been vacant for a while, a plumbing inspection is a good idea before new tenants move in.
Tips for choosing the right provider
Look for a licensed plumber with experience working with residential properties. Make sure they offer emergency services, as plumbing issues don’t wait for office hours. It’s also worth checking for reviews or getting recommendations from other landlords to ensure reliability.
Gas Safety Engineers
Gas safety is one of the most critical aspects of property maintenance. As a landlord, you are legally required to have an annual gas safety check for all properties with gas appliances. Gas safety check ensures your tenants’ safety and keeps you compliant with regulations, avoiding hefty fines or legal trouble.
When you’re likely to need it
You’ll need a gas engineer annually for gas safety checks. Any time a gas appliance is installed or replaced, you’ll also require a check to ensure everything is working properly and safely.
Tips for choosing the right provider
Always hire a Gas Safe registered engineer, as this is the legal requirement. Be sure to schedule your check well in advance of the deadline and keep records of all safety inspections, as they may be requested during property inspections.
Electricians
Electrical issues can pose serious safety risks, including the possibility of electrical fires. As a landlord, regular electrical safety checks are essential to avoid putting your tenants in danger. Keeping your electrical system in good working order also ensures that tenants have reliable access to power.
When you’re likely to need it
Electrical checks should be conducted at least every five years, or sooner if tenants report issues like tripped circuits, flickering lights, or power surges. When tenants move out, it’s a good idea to inspect the property for any wear or faults in the wiring.
Tips for choosing the right provider
Ensure the electrician is NICEIC accredited, as this guarantees their competency and adherence to UK safety standards. A good electrician will also be experienced in working with rental properties and aware of the compliance requirements.
Roofers
The roof is one of the most crucial parts of a property’s structure. Without regular checks and maintenance, roof damage can lead to water leaks, which in turn can cause major damage to the property, including mould, damp, and structural issues.
When you’re likely to need it
Roofs should be inspected annually, especially after severe weather conditions such as storms or heavy snow. You’ll also need a roofer when you notice leaks, missing tiles, or visible wear on the roof’s surface.
Tips for choosing the right provider
Look for a roofing contractor with a solid reputation and experience in residential properties. They should provide warranties for their work, ensuring that any repairs are covered for a reasonable period. It’s also important that they use quality materials that match your property’s aesthetic.
Handymen
Handymen are invaluable for smaller, everyday repairs and maintenance that keep your properties running smoothly. From fixing broken doors to painting touch-ups, a reliable handyman can take care of the tasks that may not require a specialist but still need to be done.
When you’re likely to need it
You’ll need a handyman for minor repairs like patching holes in walls, fixing loose door handles, or addressing smaller issues that arise between tenants. They are also helpful when preparing a property for a new tenant.
Tips for choosing the right provider
Choose a handyman who has experience with rental properties and a broad range of skills. You may want someone who can handle a variety of tasks, saving you the time of hiring multiple contractors.
Locksmiths
Ensuring the security of your property is a top priority. Faulty locks or lost keys can lead to security risks and tenant complaints. Having a reliable locksmith on hand will help you keep your properties secure and your tenants safe.
When you’re likely to need it
Locksmith services are needed when tenants lose their keys, locks become faulty, or when you’re dealing with tenant turnover and need to change the locks for security purposes.
Tips for choosing the right provider
Ensure the locksmith is licensed and offers quick response times, as security issues can arise at any time. Some locksmiths also offer digital key replacements, which can be more convenient for multi-tenanted properties.
Pest Control
A pest infestation can damage the property and affect tenants’ health and comfort. Pests such as rodents, insects, or birds can lead to costly repairs and even legal issues if they are not dealt with promptly.
When you’re likely to need it
Routine pest control inspections are a good idea to prevent infestations. You’ll need pest control services if tenants report seeing pests or if you notice signs of rodents or insects in your property.
Tips for choosing the right provider
Opt for an eco-friendly pest control company that uses non-toxic methods whenever possible. Choose a provider with experience in handling commercial and residential properties, as they will understand the need for discreet, efficient service.
How to Stay on Top of Property Maintenance
Maintaining a property portfolio requires ongoing effort, but with the right systems in place, you can stay organized and ensure that your properties are always in good condition. Here’s how to keep on top of property maintenance:
- Routine Inspections: Regular property inspections can help you spot small issues before they turn into costly repairs. It’s much easier and cheaper to fix minor issues than wait for them to escalate.
Use this home safety checklist for simple DIY checks like leaks, smoke alarms, and locks between professional inspections.
- Building Strong Contractor Relationships: Building long-term relationships with trusted contractors ensures that you can rely on them when you need them the most. Consistent service providers also tend to offer better prices and quicker response times.
- Using Digital Tools: Landlords can use property management software or simple scheduling apps to stay organised and track maintenance tasks. Many tools allow you to set reminders for routine inspections, safety checks, and maintenance tasks, helping you avoid missed appointments.
Conclusion
Maintaining your properties is not only about fixing issues when they arise but about staying proactive and preventing costly problems before they happen. By keeping reliable service providers on speed dial, you can ensure that your properties remain in good condition, your tenants are happy, and you comply with all legal regulations. At Power Property Inc., we understand the challenges of property management and are here to help landlords like you streamline the process. With our full-service property management solutions, you can rest easy knowing your properties are in safe hands.
