Don’t get too relaxed about your property this summer.

Property issues never take a holiday, and summer can throw up its own set of problems for landlords.

Ice, flooding and condensation are the bane of property owners in cold, wet weather, and in their absence, summer can seem like a doddle in property maintenance. Lockyers outlines three things that should be on your radar in warm weather if you want to prepare for the potential problems that summer can bring.

1. Bins – Rubbish left mounting by thoughtless tenants can not only be an eyesore, but it can post more of a health hazard in hot weather. Local Authorities can serve orders, when notified of piled up bins, to the tenant and landlord regardless of who’s at fault. Be sure to remind tenants of the risks if you start to notice a backlog.
2. Uneven surfaces – It’s not just winter and ice you need to concern yourself with. Shrinkage caused by hot dry weather can affect pathways, walls and gateposts, which can become unsteady or loose. Check for protruding paving slabs and wobbly bricks, and make sure they’re re-pointed or cemented where necessary.
3. Nests – If your tenants are noticing more bees and wasps than usual, it’s possible they’ve set up camp somewhere in or around the property, either in the loft or under the eaves or gutters. Don’t remove any nests you uncover – call your local authority to see if they have any recommended specialists in your area to evict them for you.

Your property is a valuable asset so whether you own a single property or a large portfolio, including those considered high risk such as in a flood area or with a history of subsidence. Lockyers are happy to quote for vacant / unoccupied buildings, houses of multiple occupancy and holiday homes. Call the team at Lockyers on 01924 278222 for great deals on commercial property and residential landlords insurance.