No matter what your short or long-term plans for your property are, it makes sense to winter-proof your home. Now we are in autumn; this is the time of year to spring into action. Some homeowners are proactive, but if you are the sort of person who waits for problems to arise before you make changes, it is perhaps time to make some changes.
Review your heating system
One of the reasons some homeowners aren’t proactive in caring for their home is because they worry about the cost it will incur. When there is an issue with your boiler, it costs a lot of money to repair or replace it. Therefore, some property owners would rather wait, and only spend money when there is a problem.
Of course, this is a false economy. If you wait for a problem to arise, it will likely cost you a lot more money to resolve the issue. Also, you will suffer more significant discomfort and inconvenience when it comes to dealing with boiler problems. Therefore, autumn is the ideal time to call on a qualified professional, and have your heating system reviewed.
If there isn’t a problem, you can be confident about the condition of your property. However, if there is an issue, you have the chance to improve the condition, hopefully preventing you from facing more expensive and challenging problems later.
Insulate your home
Whether you are a landlord or homeowner, there is a lot to be said for the Energy Performance Certificate, the EPC, and the energy efficiency rating of your home. If you’re a landlord, your rental property needs to be rated E or higher, and you need to give the tenant a copy of the EPC. If you plan on selling your home, you need to have an EPC.
Even if you don’t plan on selling your home, an EPC provides you with tips on how to improve the energy efficiency rating of your home. This information makes your home cosier, and it can save you money.
A fantastic tip to improve the energy efficiency of your home is to insulate the property better. If there is an attic area, make sure that it is insulated. You should also lag pipes and make sure there is cavity wall insulation, if applicable. Also, check your window and door frames. If these need to be improved, do so, and you’ll find you retain energy more efficiently.
Clear your gutters
Blocked drains and guttering cause problems in and around the home. If water overflows or cannot follow its standard path, it goes elsewhere, and if it diverts into your home, you will face problems. Very few people like clearing drains and gutters, but it is a vital job. Either do it yourself or hire someone to do it, because if you want your home to be ready for winter, you need clean gutters and drainpipes.
No matter your property aims and ambitions, if you want to be proud of your home, follow these tips. At Hunters Camberwell, we are pleased to say we support the local community, and whether you are a homeowner or landlord, we can help you, so please get in touch.
