Every season brings its own challenges for landlords, but autumn is arguably the most important. It bridges the lighter, low-maintenance summer months with the heavy demands of winter.
For landlords, this is the point in the year when preparation really pays off. Heating systems are about to be tested, tenants will spend more time indoors, and the rental market itself is shifting.
At Hunters, we’ve pulled together insights and advice to help landlords navigate autumn 2025 with confidence. Think of this as your seasonal briefing: practical steps, legal reminders, and market analysis to help protect your investment and strengthen tenant relationships.
Why autumn matters for landlords
The change in season has a knock-on effect for rental properties. Tenants spend more time at home, energy use rises, and weather conditions put more strain on buildings.
From a landlord’s perspective, this means:
- Higher maintenance demand: Boilers, roofs, and gutters are all more likely to fail in winter.
- Greater tenant reliance: A warm, efficient home is more valued (and scrutinised) in colder months.
- Market activity: Rent reviews and valuations often happen at this time of year, ahead of the new financial cycle.
Getting ahead in autumn doesn’t just prevent problems; it enhances property performance and tenant satisfaction.
Property maintenance: what to prioritise
While every property is unique, data from our network of Hunters offices shows the same problems crop up year after year. In autumn 2024, the most common landlord call-outs were:
- Heating and hot water failures (38% of all urgent issues)
- Leaks caused by blocked gutters or damaged roofs (26%)
- Condensation and mould growth (18%)
Landlords can minimise risk with proactive checks.
Recommended seasonal actions:
- Service the boiler: Annual checks with a Gas Safe engineer reduce breakdown risk and keep efficiency high.
- Inspect the roof: Missing tiles or faulty flashing let in water, small repairs now prevent costly damp later.
- Clear gutters and drains: Falling leaves clog fast; clearing them avoids leaks and overflow.
- Seal doors and windows: Draught-proofing improves comfort and cuts bills.
- Check external lighting: As nights draw in, safe access becomes more important.
- Test smoke and CO alarms: A legal requirement, and vital for tenant safety.
Hunters’ managed service includes scheduled inspections and contractor arrangements, giving landlords peace of mind that seasonal risks are covered.
Compliance: staying on the right side of the law
The lettings sector is one of the most regulated parts of property, and landlords need to keep up.
Gas and electrical safety
- Gas Safety Certificate: Must be renewed annually and given to tenants within 28 days of completion.
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): Required every five years. Copies must be provided to tenants and the local authority if requested.
Missing deadlines can result in fines and prevent landlords from regaining possession of their property under Section 21.
EPC requirements
Rental properties must hold a minimum E rating. Although proposals to raise this to C by 2028 have yet to be confirmed, the market is already moving in that direction.
Why energy efficiency matters now:
- Tenants are increasingly seeking homes with lower running costs.
- Energy-efficient homes attract more enquiries and shorter voids.
- Improvements add long-term property value.
Popular upgrades include loft insulation, modern boilers, smart thermostats, and double glazing.
Hunters can connect landlords with trusted contractors and advise on which improvements deliver the best return.
Tenant relationships: the retention factor
Tenant expectations have shifted. According to Zoopla’s Rental Market Report 2025, the average tenancy now lasts over four years, compared to around three pre-pandemic. Longer stays mean retention is just as important as finding new tenants.
What drives retention? Our surveys highlight three key themes:
- Responsiveness: Tenants value quick acknowledgment of issues, even if the fix takes time.
- Transparency: Clear agreements about rent reviews, notice periods, and responsibilities reduce disputes.
- Condition: Homes that are well-maintained foster loyalty and pride of place.
Autumn landlord tip: Use this season to send a short, friendly check-in to tenants. Remind them how to report issues and share simple guidance on preventing dampness and using heating efficiently. Small gestures often prevent bigger issues later.
Hunters’ property managers act as the professional go-between, ensuring communication is smooth and tenants feel supported without adding to landlords’ workloads.
The rental market autumn 2025: what’s happening
Understanding the wider market helps landlords make informed decisions about rents, yields, and investments.
Rightmove Q3 2025 reports:
- Average UK asking rents are up 6.9% year-on-year.
- Growth is strongest in the Midlands and North, while London and the South East are slowing due to affordability ceilings.
Zoopla’s data shows:
- Rental demand remains 35% above the five-year average.
- Tenant affordability is stretched, especially for larger properties.
- Smaller homes and energy-efficient properties are letting faster.
What this means for landlords:
- Rent reviews should balance yield with affordability; fair pricing helps avoid voids.
- Well-maintained, efficient homes continue to command premium demand.
- Regional variation is widening, so local insight matters more than ever.
Hunters’ local branches provide landlords with data-led valuations and rental comparisons, ensuring rents are competitive and sustainable.
Financial planning: review your returns
Beyond the market, autumn is also a personal financial checkpoint. With the tax year-end approaching in April, this season is the ideal time to review income and expenditure.
Key steps for landlords:
- Calculate your net yield: Factor in mortgage payments, insurance, agent fees, and maintenance.
- Forecast tax liabilities: Use income statements to plan for self-assessment.
- Log deductible expenses: Repairs, mileage, and management fees can reduce tax bills.
- Plan improvements strategically: Energy upgrades or capital works may qualify for allowances.
Hunters’ landlords receive clear income and expense reports, making tax preparation simpler and more efficient.
Planning beyond 2025
Autumn preparation isn’t just about the coming winter; it’s about setting your property up for the year ahead.
Trends to watch in 2026 include:
- Regulation tightening: The long-debated Renters (Reform) Bill may introduce a landlord portal, the Decent Homes Standard, and the removal of Section 21.
- Energy expectations rising: Even without legislation, tenant demand for efficient homes is accelerating.
- Mortgage shifts: With interest rates still unpredictable, landlords should review deals early and consider remortgaging options.
Planning reduces surprises and protects long-term returns.
How Hunters supports landlords
Hunters’ landlord services are built around proactive management, compliance expertise, and local insight.
We provide:
- Routine and emergency maintenance
- Legal compliance tracking and updates
- Rent collection and arrears management
- Tenant find and full management packages
- Data-led rental valuations and investment advice
By combining national strength with local knowledge, we help landlords reduce stress, increase returns, and stay compliant.
Book your valuation today
Autumn is the season of preparation. By reviewing your property’s condition, compliance, tenant relationships, and financial performance now, you’ll enter winter confident that your investment is in good shape.
Book your free valuation with Hunters today!
With the right support this autumn, landlords can look forward to fewer surprises and stronger results in the months ahead.
