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Winter is coming. The cold weather can bring a host of challenges for property managers, especially when it comes to heating systems. It’s important to stay on top of boiler repairs and maintenance before the temperatures plummet.
Property managers can not only ensure tenant satisfaction but also protect their landlords’ investments by prioritising boiler care.
Why you need to keep on top of boiler repairs and maintenance
Boilers which are regularly maintained have a longer lifespan. While the average lifespan of a boiler is 10 to 15 years, with regular maintenance, they can last up to 25 years. Replacing a boiler completely is much more costly than having regular checks.
Steps to take to be prepared
Get ready for the cost
It's essential to allocate funds specifically to prepare for the cost of regular services and checks. By setting aside a portion of rental income or property management fees, a property manager can avoid unexpected expenses and maintain a healthy financial position.
It may be helpful to consider creating a dedicated maintenance fund for each property that can be used to cover routine inspections, servicing, and emergency repairs—depending on the type of lease. Regular contributions to this fund will help a property manager to be prepared for any boiler-related costs that may arise.
Book a boiler service ahead of winter
To ensure a property is adequately prepared for the upcoming winter season, it's crucial to schedule a professional boiler service well in advance. Booking an appointment early means avoiding potential delays and ensuring a boiler is inspected and serviced before the colder months arrive.
This proactive approach will help to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Regular boiler maintenance can identify and address potential issues before they escalate into more costly repairs.
Keep up to date with tenant communication
A property manager needs to be able to act quickly when a problem arises. If they do not, the system of trust for the tenant can break down, and a small problem can snowball into something more significant.
If a boiler problem is reported, acknowledge the issue promptly by letting the tenant know that their concern has been received and is being addressed. If boiler repairs or maintenance are left, winter will arrive, and tenants will be unhappy living without a boiler in the cold.
Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, a landlord is obligated to fix a boiler in under 24 hours if a property has no heating or hot water. Otherwise, tenants should expect repairs to be carried out within a 'reasonable time'.
Fixflo can help keep tenants informed during every step of the process.
Insulate boiler pipes
Preventing heat loss and optimising boiler performance is pivotal in winter. Insulating the pipes will reduce heat transfer to surrounding areas, lowering energy bills. Pipes can often ice over in the colder months, causing insufficient water flow and potentially damaging the boiler. There is also an increased risk of leaks.
When a boiler is out of commission for long periods, such as during the summer, slime, dirt, and limescale can build up inside the pipes. This can reduce the boiler's efficiency and lead to costly repairs. To avoid this, advise your tenants to switch on their boiler for around 15 minutes per month to help circulate the water and prevent the buildup of sediment.
Know the benefits
By ensuring a boiler is well-maintained, tenants can enjoy efficiency and lower energy bills. Proper maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your boiler, reducing the need for costly replacements.
A well-maintained boiler operates more efficiently, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Regular inspections can help identify and address potential safety hazards, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide buildup, ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment for all.
Want to learn how Fixflo can help further with keeping on top of these tasks?
Gemma Nettle
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This article is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have any questions related to issues in this article, we strongly advise contacting a legal professional.
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