Keeping Cool: Preparing Rental Properties for a Hot Summer

Keeping Cool: Preparing Rental Properties for a Hot Summer

From soaring temperatures to decreased rainfall, the Bureau of Meteorology is predicting a hotter and drier summer across most of the country¹.

As the scorching weather approaches, property managers have a role to play in ensuring that rental properties are well-prepared to handle the heat. Hot weather can take a toll on tenants and properties alike, so now is the time to help landlords safeguard their investments and make sure they provide comfortable living conditions for their tenants.

Here are five considerations for landlords wanting to ready their rental properties for summer:

1. Keeping cool

The first and most obvious step in preparing a rental property for hot weather is ensuring adequate cooling. Functional and well-maintained air conditioning or fans are necessities to make it through Australia’s sweltering days and nights.

Ceiling fans in bedrooms and living areas will help to circulate air and keep tenants comfortable without the need for constant air conditioning which can be expensive.

2. Ventilation is key

In areas where humidity levels can be high, ensure proper ventilation is possible. Good airflow through windows and doors, or fixed and portable fans, is the best way to achieve this. Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms also help to eliminate excess heat and humidity, which may help to prevent a build-up of mould and bacteria.

3. Window coverings

An often-overlooked aspect of protecting a rental’s furnishings is window coverings. Landlords should invest in blinds or curtains that can effectively block out the sun’s rays during the hottest parts of the day. This not only keeps the interior cooler but can also prevent furniture and flooring from fading due to prolonged sun exposure.

4. Regular maintenance

No different to any other time of year, preventative maintenance is key to a property’s longevity and the comfort of tenants. Scheduling regular inspections for air conditioning systems, fans and any other cooling systems will not only keep tenants comfortable but also extend the lifespan of the appliances.

5. Pool maintenance

If the property has a swimming pool, make sure it’s clean and properly maintained – this may mean arranging a professional or ensuring the tenant is clear on their responsibilities, depending on the rental agreement. Regular cleaning, testing and chemical balancing are essential, plus appropriate fencing to comply with Australian standards, to ensure pools are safe and enjoyable features for tenants.

One of the most critical factors for landlords is ensuring adequate landlord insurance is in place. Australian weather can be unpredictable and extreme conditions, such as bushfires and storms, can cause significant damage to properties. A suitable insurance policy will cover for damage due to most weather-related incidents, providing peace of mind and financial protection to safeguard landlords’ investments.

As Australia’s leading landlord insurance specialist, Terri Scheer’s dedicated landlord insurance, Landlord Preferred, provides comprehensive cover for weather events, tenant-related risks, loss of rental income and more. Find out what’s included here: https://www.terrischeer.com.au/landlord-insurance/

Property managers should check their authority to distribute or refer before discussing with landlords or dealing in insurance.

For further information, call 1800 804 016.

Disclaimer:

Insurance issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859 trading as Terri Scheer. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance and consider whether it is right for you. Contact Terri Scheer on 1800 804 016 or visit our website at www.terrischeer.com.au for a copy. The Target Market Determination is also available.

The information is intended to be of a general nature only. Subject to any rights you may have under any law, we do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss or damage, including loss of business or profits or any other indirect loss, incurred as a result of reliance upon it – please make your own enquiries. This article has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it.