Christmas is coming so, once again, it’s time to think about how you can help your tenants enjoy the festive season. The winter weather puts extra stress on the property and so might your tenants, especially if they’re planning to celebrate at home.
Here are my top 10 tips for ensuring you, your property and your tenants all emerge from the holiday period in good shape. Hopefully if you have a good managing agent, they will be making these checks on your behalf!
1. Make sure the property is secure. Presents out on display, distracted tenants and any lapse in security make your property ever so attractive to burglars, so check fencing is in good condition, security lighting is working properly and remind your tenants to lock up properly whenever they leave the property. It’s also a good idea to suggest they don’t leave any new technology in plain sight – particularly if it’s still in the box.
2. Are your tenants’ belongings insured? With new presents around and an increased risk of burglary, ask your tenants whether they have taken out contents insurance. If they haven’t, explain that your policy doesn’t cover them and suggest that it might be a good idea.
3. What are your managing agent’s festive opening hours? If you use an agent to manage your property, make sure both you and your tenant know when they’ll be open for business and who to contact in case of an emergency.
