Health and safety issues for landlords: Take precautions over winter, says ARLA

Landlords have been urged to make managing their properties a key health and safety priority over the winter months.

The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) said burst pipes and damage to property can cause misery to both tenants and landlords, making preparation essential.

It has been unseasonably warm in recent months but the past few days have seen adverse weather sweep across the UK with storms and heavy rain causing property damage.

Temperatures could also drop, raising the risk of pipes bursting and wreaking havoc.

According to ARLA, simple steps such as lagging exposed pipes could prevent the escape of water and the damage and misery that can cause.

Before high winds and stormy weather hits, ARLA recommends:

Checking the condition of roofs, in particular garage shed and flat roofs for signs of wear and tear

Keeping gutters, gullies and drains clear so they can carry water away quickly and efficiently

Ensuring drainpipes do not get blocked with trapped rainwater as this may cause them to crack or shatter in freezing conditions

Consider cutting back low-hanging tree branches, which could cause damage in high winds

Landlord Health and Safety News