Winter maintenance letter

This month we assisted one of our members with a query they had relating to the management of their property.

As we approach winter and temperatures begin to fall, a common issue faced by landlords is that of a burst pipe or faulty boiler. These can be frustrating problems for both tenants and landlords alike.

Our member had unfortunately experienced this problem last year when a tenant left the property empty for a number of days without informing the landlord or leaving the heating running. This resulted in a burst pipe due to very cold weather.

The landlord was looking for some advice they could give to their tenants to help explain their obligations. Our adviser was able to signpost them to our winter letter for tenants which is just what they were looking for.

This letter informs tenants of what they should do to avoid common winter problems, and what to do in the event of an emergency. Being proactive and informing the tenant of what you expect of them can make it less likely that these issues present themselves.

In the event that the worst happens and repairs are needed, then landlords and/or contractors can enter the property on the understanding they follow the relevant coronavirus government guidance on working in other people’s homes. The winter letter to tenants also explains this.

Our adviser told our landlord that it’s important to remember in most situations it is likely that the landlord will be liable when it comes to repairing any damage to the boiler or pipework, unless it was deliberate damage caused by the tenant or - potentially - if they were negligent.

Members can download the template winter letter to send to tenants here.