When it comes to looking after a home or rental property, prevention is always cheaper than cure. Many of the major repair jobs we get called out to at Lions Property Maintenance could have been avoided with simple, regular checks. A few small, inexpensive tasks carried out throughout the year can save homeowners and landlords hundreds-sometimes thousands-of pounds in unexpected repair bills.
Below are the top five maintenance tasks every property owner should prioritise to keep their property in great condition and avoid costly problems later.
- Clear Gutters and Check Roof Drainage
Blocked gutters are one of the biggest causes of external water damage. Leaves, moss and debris build up over time, stopping rainwater from flowing correctly. When this happens, water can overflow into brickwork, foundations, or even inside the home.
What can go wrong if you don’t do it?
- Damp patches on internal walls
- Rotting fascias and soffits
- Water damage around windows
- Overflow causing flooding in heavy rain
How often should you check?
Twice a year-usually spring and autumn-is ideal.
How Lions Property Maintenance can help
We carry out gutter clearing, minor repairs and full drainage checks, ensuring water flows exactly as it should all year round.
- Service Boilers and Heating Systems Annually
A boiler breakdown is not only inconvenient-it’s expensive. Many issues occur because the system hasn’t been serviced regularly.
Why it matters
- A full service catches faults early
- It improves efficiency and reduces energy bills
- It extends the life of your boiler
- Landlords legally require annual gas safety checks
A £70–£90 service today can easily prevent a £1,000 boiler replacement later.
- Inspect Windows, Doors and Sealant
Weatherproofing is one of the simplest yet most overlooked forms of property maintenance. Over time, sealant cracks, window frames shift, and small gaps form-especially in older properties.
If ignored, this can lead to:
- Heat loss and increased energy bills
- Damp entering through gaps
- Rotting timber frames
- Difficulty opening/closing windows and doors
Good practice
Check the seal around windows, doors, bathrooms, and kitchens every 6–12 months. Re-sealing is a quick job that prevents major issues like mould or structural damp.
- Check for Early Signs of Damp and Mould
Damp is far easier to treat when caught early. Property owners often ignore small signs-like slight condensation or a faint musty smell-until the problem becomes serious.
Early signs to watch for
- Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper
- Black spots in corners or around windows
- A cold, damp feeling in certain rooms
- Discoloured patches on walls or ceilings
Damp left untreated spreads quickly, damaging plaster, skirting boards, flooring and even electrics. Regular inspections make all the difference.
- Test Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Electrics
Safety checks don’t just protect the property-they protect the people living in it. Smoke alarms and CO detectors save lives, but they need to be tested.
Essential checks include:
- Testing alarms monthly
- Replacing batteries yearly
- Ensuring alarms are in the correct locations
- Getting electrics inspected every 5 years (landlord requirement)
Faulty wiring or outdated electrical systems can lead to fires or appliance failures. A simple inspection gives peace of mind and avoids expensive emergency callouts.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters
Small problems rarely stay small. A cracked tile becomes a leaking bathroom. A blocked gutter becomes a damp wall. An unserviced boiler becomes a winter emergency.
Proactive maintenance:
- Extends the life of your property
- Reduces emergency repair calls
- Keeps tenants happy
- Saves money over the long term
At Lions Property Maintenance, we specialise in reliable, affordable upkeep for landlords, homeowners and property managers. Whether you need regular inspections or help with one of the tasks above, we’re here to keep your property running smoothly.
Need help with property maintenance?
Lions Property Maintenance offers:
- General repairs
- Emergency callouts
- Heating and plumbing maintenance
- Roofing and guttering
- Landlord safety checks
- Full property care packages
Get in touch today to arrange a visit or request a free quote.