Winter appears to be in full swing already- a bit of a shock after the heatwave we experienced this summer! As temperatures drop and the ‘big’ coats come out of storage, it’s time to make sure your block and your residents are prepared for the months ahead.
For those with the budget to do so, now would be a good time to invest in measures that will protect your block and lessen the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on your residents. For those with less money to spend, there are still lots of small ways you can look after your block.
Large-Scale Investments
Upgrading Heating Systems
Alongside an annual system service to make sure everything’s ticking along fine, you may also want to consider a heating system overhaul. If your system is behind the times and your residents are having to use expensive measures such as stand-alone radiators or fan heaters, this is definitely an investment worth making.
Upgrading Lighting Systems
With the shorter, darker days approaching, it’s worth noting how much energy is wasted using out-of-date lighting systems. Non-LED fixtures that are left on 24/7 will be a serious drain on your finances.
It’s also worth noting that, following Stage 2 of the Single Lighting Regulation and the updated Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive, from February 2023 fluorescent lamps and fittings will no longer be available. According to the Government, “the shift to LED bulbs will cut 1.26 million tonnes of CO2 – the equivalent of removing over half a million cars from UK roads.”
Upgrading Windows
Sub-standard windows allow warm air to escape through a thin surface, air leakage through poor insulation, and heat convection through even the tiniest of gaps in joints and casements. Modern, well fitted double glazed windows will cut down on heat loss, draughts and issues with condensation. You could also consider hanging thermal curtains in communal areas to help retain heat.
Small Changes: Big Impacts
Frozen Pipes
Prevention is always better than cure, and burst pipes are no joke. Tick through this list in the autumn months to protect yourself and your residents against frozen pipes:
- If a resident is planning on being away for a while, suggest that they ask a friend or relative to check on their home to make sure pipes haven’t burst or frozen.
- Dripping taps may freeze and block pipes so always replace faulty washers promptly- you may also save around a litre of water a day!
- Make sure you, your team and your residents know where the stop cock is and regularly check that you can turn it off easily. Consider labelling it so you remember where it is in a panic.
- In very cold weather, the heating will need to be on low or set to come on a couple of times a day, especially if the property will be empty for a while. Most modern boilers have a frost-protection thermostat which turns on automatically if the temperature drops to a level that will cause your pipes to freeze.
Flat Roofs
These should be checked regularly (even within their ten-year guarantee period) to ensure their condition. We recommend an annual check by a professional roofer. Your insurer may well ask for a copy of their report along with confirmation that any necessary maintenance has been carried out.
Trees and Leaves
Take care to note any trees that look unstable or like they may be easily blown over in a storm. Remove any unsecure branches too. Leaves should be cleared away consistently to avoid a slippery layer of wet mulch on the ground. This could freeze over, causing a further hazard.
Gutters
Avoid the expense and inconvenience of having to replace uncared for gutters or deal with the water damage and mould caused by blockages. A professional clear out every two years should be sufficient unless you have trees nearby or a mossy roof. In which case an annual clean might be needed.
Fences
Replace any loose or weather-worn panels and give each one a shake to make sure they’re secure.
Garden furniture, Pots and Ornaments
Store these away wherever possible to prevent weather damage. They could even be picked up by strong winds, causing damage to anything they hit.
We’ll all be facing increasing costs this winter. While the above measures may help reduce some of the impact, your residents are likely to be feeling the pinch. Make sure they’re aware of the support available by directing them to the Government’s cost-of-living guidance here.
