As temperatures drop and the days shorten, Autumn is the perfect time to prepare your property before the winter weather sets in. A well-maintained property not only keeps tenants comfortable but also protects your investment from costly damage.

Here are eight essential property maintenance tasks to tackle this season.

Gutters & Drains

✅ Clear Your Gutters – Towards the end of autumn, remove leaves and debris to prevent blockages that could lead to water damage. Pro tip: Use a hose to check that water flows freely through your gutters and downpipes.

✅ Inspect Your Drains – Ensure all drains are free of leaves and debris to prevent overflowing during heavy rain.

Heating & Insulation

✅ Service Your Heating Sources – Make sure your heat pump, fireplace, or other heating sources are working efficiently and safely. Clean heat pump filters and clear away any leaves or greenery around the outdoor unit. Autumn is the ideal time to book a professional service before they get booked out. Most insurance policies also require that fireplaces and chimneys to be serviced annually.

✅ Seal Gaps & Drafts – Check windows and doors for gaps where cold air can creep in. Use draft stoppers or sealant to keep the warmth inside. If you have an unused fireplace, consider blocking it with an old duvet or blankets to reduce heat loss.

House Exterior

✅ Inspect the Roof – Look for loose flashing, damaged tiles, or any signs of leaks. Addressing these now can prevent major issues during heavy rain.

✅ Check Outdoor Lighting – With shorter days, exterior lighting is more important than ever. Test all outdoor lights to ensure safety around your property.

Garden Care

✅ Trim Overhanging Branches – Identify trees with weak or overgrown branches that could pose a risk to your property or neighbours during strong winds.

✅ Maximise Sunlight – Prune trees and bushes blocking light from entering your home. More sunlight means a drier, warmer house and helps prevent dampness.

 

At South Property Management, we are scheduling our autumn inspections and will be checking off some these essential tasks. If you need expert property management to take care of your rental, get in touch for a free appraisal. Let us handle the winter prep so you can focus on enjoying the last of the warm days!