Landlords looking to find suitable buildings and contents insurance for their properties should be mindful of some winter-specific damage potential, it was said today.
As temperatures drop and frost starts to appear, simple steps could prevent expensive repair bills, advised the National Landlords Association (NLA).
The group recommended checking the heating system regularly and ensuring tenants know how to use it properly, as well as providing torches and contact details for an electrician should a power cut occur.
Keep a supply of spare light bulbs and consider fitting a security alarm together with motion sensor lights on the exterior of the house. These can contribute towards security and potentially ward off opportunistic thieves, the NLA suggested.
If a pipe bursts, tenants should be informed on how to turn off the water supply. Pipes which could be at risk of freezing this winter should be lagged.
Finally, landlords are advised to carry out repairs on guttering and roof cracks as soon as possible to prevent them worsening during bad weather.
"Landlords may save themselves thousands of pounds in repair bills, not to mention keeping their tenants safe, by preparing them for the worst well in advance of winter weather," concluded NLA chairman David Salusbury.
Looking online for buildings and contents insurance could also be a suitable way to get value for money this year.
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