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4 things tenants should watch out for at Christmas
Thursday 19th December 2019
It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but Christmas brings certain risks to rental properties.
As we enter the festive season we want to best prepare our tenants for potential hazards and advise them on how to avoid them.
We've pulled together the four most common issues that can impact tenants during the run-up to Christmas, and some tips on how to keep them at bay.
1. Decorative fire hazards
Modern fairy lights are usually fairly safe, but it's advisable to turn them off overnight, and check that you're not using any ancient ones that might not meet modern fire safety standards or overloading the plugs.
Naked flames are a more obvious fire hazard, so do not leave any decorations that use those unattended, or keep them near soft furnishings.
And though it is Santa's usual entry point, stockings hanging over the fireplace (or other heat-generating appliances) can catch light, so keep them elsewhere.
If you haven't checked the property's smoke detector recently, now is a good time to do so.
2. Seasonal thieves
Unfortunately, theft levels often spike in the run-up to Christmas. With decorations and presents laid out in advance, thieves are given a good indication of which houses might prove to be lucrative targets.
With that in mind, it's a good idea to keep curtains closed overnight, and consider only setting out presents on Christmas Eve. If you have any additional security features, whether it's dead bolts or motion-activated lights, nows certainly the time to use them.
If you're going away, use extra security measures such as timer lights inside the property as your home will more likely to be a target.
3. Wet weather woes
While we might not get a white Christmas this year, as temperatures get lower, plumbing and structural issues with your property could rear their heads.
If you've previously had issues with pipes or drainage, it's worth doing a check of those before the weather gets really nasty - no one wants a burst pipe on Boxing Day!
If you are going away, be sure to leave your heating on low to protect from any potential frost damage.
4. Messy guests
This is a difficult one to raise with friends and family, but if you're having a lot of guests over then the risk of damage increases, whether it's a glass of red wine spilt on the sofa or muddy footprints on the carpet.
One way to politely remind your guests is by turning it into a festive joke. You could let them know that Santa should remove his boots after coming down the chimney, and that he needs to be careful with his sherry - we all know he'll be a bit tipsy by the time he arrives.
And don't forget your insurance
Finally, as much as you and your prepare, some things are beyond your control, and you could end up with damage to your property, whether it's from thieves breaking in or Rudolph chewing on your sofa.
Check your contents insurance to make sure you're covered for any potential Christmas disasters. Remember; your own belongings are not covered under the landlord insurance, they are for you to protect.
May we take the opportunity to wish you all a safe and enjoyable festive season.