As a landlord, there are many things you need to think about and stay on top of. Your rental property’s roof is one of these things, and it is the responsibility of the landlord to ensure that it remains safe. In this blog, we’re providing you with roofing tips for landlords in Preston.
You’ve heard us say it before, but roofs are so important. Don’t underestimate how damaging things can be if something goes wrong with your roof. In the case of a tenanted property, it’s not just the landlord that might worry, but also the tenants.
Why do I need to maintain my rental property roof?
There are so many reasons why it’s crucial to ensure roof maintenance has been completed. Here are just a few of them.
Tenant safety
The last thing you want is to cause your tenants to feel or be unsafe in your property and it’s your responsibility to act accordingly if issues are reported.
Reduce costly repairs
By identifying and fixing issues quickly, you can reduce costly repairs. Many people underestimate roof damage and what started as a small problem can become much worse.
Reduce the risk of mould
It’s important to do what you can to reduce mould in your property, as once it appears, it can be tricky to remove.
Save money for tenants
Rental homes will be more appealing if they offer higher energy efficiency levels, and with a good quality roof, you may reduce heat loss in the house, saving your tenants money.
What are my obligations as a landlord?
As we mentioned previously, you are responsible for ensuring that the property is well-maintained and safe for tenants to live in. However, without living there yourself, it may be tricky for you to identify issues and rectify them.
That’s where the tenants come in. Tenants are expected to report any issues with the home as soon as possible. Then, the landlord has the chance to look at all of their options and make an informed decision. If things are left too late, landlords don’t have the ability to assess their options, as roof replacement in Preston might be the only one.
What’s expected of your tenants in terms of reporting issues should be outlined in their tenancy agreement. This can help to ensure that things are clear and that any issues can be rectified as soon as possible.
If you are a landlord, it can be a good idea to work closely with roofers in Blackpool or Preston. The roofing company that you choose can be on hand to support you with all aspects of your property portfolio. We have many years of experience supporting both landlords and homeowners with their roofing project needs.
Top roofing tips for landlords in Preston
Insurance
It’s absolutely vital that you have the correct level of insurance for your rental home. Without the right insurance, you could find yourself uninsured and needing to find repair money yourself.
You should also ensure that photos are taken of the damage or roofing issue so that you can use these as evidence for any insurance claims.
Roof checks
You can’t expect your tenants to get up on the roof and check it over, so you may need to call someone in to do so. A professional roofing company like PR Roofing can help assess your roof and building structure. Our thorough checks will ensure that you get the peace of mind you need for your property.
It’s a good idea to check after winter, as this is when more damage is likely to occur due to the weather. Heavy wind, rain and even snow can lead to slipped roof tiles, broken roof shingles and roof leaks. Read our blog on winter in Preston.
Roof insulation
Not only does quality roof insulation help your tenants to save money on energy bills, but it also reduces the risks of water damage to your roof and property. You’re better off not going for the cheapest options for insulation, as these may be less effective.
Check your gutters
A home’s gutters are very simple yet very effective. You should check these regularly to ensure they aren’t blocked. Gutters are responsible for taking water away from your roof and the rest of the property, so if they are blocked, they become quite inefficient. Leaves and other debris can cause blockages.
Property ventilation
Poor ventilation can lead to damp and mould in properties, which you’re definitely better off avoiding. Roof vents can help to reduce the risks of these issues. However, it’s worth reminding tenants that they need to take further steps, such as having windows open and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the property.
Maintenance costs
Every now and again, you will need to pay maintenance costs on your rental property’s roof. The best thing to do is set up a monthly payment that goes into a maintenance cost account. This will help to ensure that you are covered if you have to pay out for any emergencies. It’s always better to be prepared. Read our blog on roof repair vs roof replacement.
We hope this blog post has been helpful for Preston landlords. The roofing material that is used can have a huge impact on any damage that occurs. When planning a new roof, make sure you consider your options carefully.
Are you looking for roof maintenance, roof repairs or roof replacement in Preston and surrounding areas? Look no further. Our team of dedicated roofing professionals are on hand to provide you with a quality service at all times. Contact us today for a no-obligation quote.