September is a useful time to deal with small jobs before colder, wetter days arrive.
A few simple checks now can make your home more comfortable and may reduce the chance of an avoidable winter problem.
If you rent your home, report any repairs to your landlord or letting agent and get permission before making changes. Tenants should not attempt work that is the landlord’s responsibility.
1. Check the heating
Turn the heating on before you need it every day.
Check that radiators warm up, controls respond correctly and the boiler or other fixed heating system appears to be working as expected.
Arrange any servicing or repairs through an appropriately qualified professional.
Tenants should report problems promptly rather than arranging repairs themselves, unless their landlord or agent has agreed otherwise.
2. Protect pipes from cold weather
Cold weather can cause water in pipes to freeze and, in some cases, lead to a burst.
Check accessible pipes in colder areas such as lofts, garages and cupboards. Suitable insulation can help protect them, and everyone in the household should know where the stopcock is located.
If you are going away, follow the advice for your heating system and home insurer. Tenants should also follow their tenancy instructions and notify the landlord or agent where required.
3. Clear leaves from safe, accessible areas
Leaves can make paths slippery and block drainage around a property.
Clear ground-level areas you can reach safely and check that accessible outside drains are not covered.
Do not climb ladders or attempt roof-level work without the correct equipment and experience. Use a competent professional where necessary.
4. Look for draughts
Check around windows, external doors and loft hatches for obvious draughts.
Simple measures such as lined curtains or a removable draught excluder may improve comfort, but ventilation openings should never be blocked.
Ask for permission before attaching permanent draught-proofing products in a rented home.
5. Reduce everyday condensation
Cooking, showering and drying clothes release moisture into the air.
Use extractor fans where provided, keep ventilation openings clear and wipe away condensation. Where it is safe and practical, short periods of ventilation can help moist air escape.
Persistent damp, mould, leaks or a faulty extractor may require further investigation.
Tenants should report these problems promptly and keep a record of the report rather than assuming they are responsible for the repair.
6. Check outdoor lighting and entrances
Shorter days make lighting and clear access increasingly important.
Replace failed bulbs where it is safe to do so, keep paths tidy and check that gates and handrails are secure.
Shared or communal repairs may need to be reported to a factor, landlord or letting agent.
7. Keep useful details close at hand
Save the contact details for your home insurer, heating engineer, utility emergency service and any home-emergency provider.
Tenants should know how to contact their landlord or managing agent both during and outside normal working hours.
If Your Move manages your tenancy, use the contact route provided for reporting repairs and emergencies.
Prepare now and deal with concerns early
A short check in early autumn can highlight work that requires professional attention while there is still time to arrange it.
Focus on safety, follow the terms of your insurance policy or tenancy agreement and do not take on repairs beyond your skills or responsibilities.
Need help with a property or tenancy?
Contact your local Your Move branch.
This article provides general maintenance guidance. Use appropriately qualified professionals and follow your insurance policy, tenancy agreement and manufacturer instructions.
The Your Move Content Marketing Team
