A Checklist for Landlords: Keeping Your Rental Property in Wakefield Safe

If you’re a landlord in Wakefield, you know keeping your property in great condition is crucial. It not only ensures tenants are comfortable, but is a legal requirement when it comes to gas safety. It will also affect the long-term value of your property.

Even one issue with a boiler that’s overlooked, or skipped safety checks, can turn into costly problems. That’s why having a year-round property maintenance checklist is vital.

At Huddersfield Gas & Plumbing, we provide a range of reliable services for landlords in Wakefield, from gas safety certificates to heating repairs. This practical guide outlines everything you need to keep your rental safe, warm, and running smoothly — throughout the seasons.

Why Regular Maintenance is Vital

Neglecting basic maintenance doesn’t lead to issues like boiler breakdowns: it can put your tenants’ safety at risk and lead to hefty legal fees. Being a landlord means you’re legally responsible for annual gas safety checks, ensuring the boiler is working properly, and completing emergency repairs when needed.

Tackling problems early on means less emergencies are likely to arise. It can also help you avoid more expensive repairs and keeps your tenants happy. The result? Fewer complaints and tenants who are more likely to stick around.

Your Landlord Maintenance Checklist

Below is a breakdown of what you should check through the seasons, including serving and repairs, which can help you stay ahead of issues in your rental property.

Spring (March – May)

This is a great time for routine maintenance after the strain of winter.

Boiler Servicing

Now is one of the best times for a professional service for the boiler. After a long winter, internal parts may be worn, and a tune-up ensures efficiency and safety.

Check for Water Leaks

Pipes and radiators may have developed small leaks or corroded during those cold snaps. Our team can check for drips, rust marks or damp patches. You can trust us to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Inspect Radiators

Bleed radiators and test for cold spots. Poor circulation can indicate blockages or air in the system.

Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms

This is crucial for the safety of your tenants. Ensure you regularly replace batteries and that every floor of the property has working fire alarms.

Schedule Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)

This annual check is a legal requirement. Book early with one of our certified engineers and you can avoid that last-minute stress.

Summer (June – August)

Perfect time for upgrades and deeper repairs with less disruption for tenants.

Boiler Installations or Upgrades

If your boiler is on the older side or inefficient, summer is the best time to replace it. Not only is the season less busy, it keeps tenants happy come winter.

Gas Pipework Inspection

Gas pipes wear out over time. A qualified engineer can check pressure levels and identify potential issues.

Bathroom and Kitchen Plumbing Checks

Is your sink draining too slowly? Or have you noticed limescale, or leaking taps? They can not only waste water, but get on tenants’ nerves.

Insulate Pipework (External & Loft)

It’s vital to prevent frost damage with proper lagging before the cold returns.

Out of Hours Callout Plan

It’s recommended you make an emergency contact plan: tenants should know who to ring if there’s a leak or problem outside working hours.

Autumn (September – November)

Finally, it’s peak season for heating! This time is a good time to have a full test of your heating system. Our team can examine the entire system: boiler, radiators, thermostat. This enables us to catch problems before they escalate.

Tasks should include clearing external vents and flues. You want to ensure nothing is blocking airflow — a blocked flue is a carbon monoxide hazard.

Seal Draughts Around Windows and Doors

This improves energy efficiency and keeps the cost of heating down for tenants. This always goes appreciated, given how high energy bills are.

Review Tenant Communication

You might want to send a reminder email: how to use heating efficiently, what to do in emergencies, and how to report issues quickly.

Confirm Boiler Servicing Logs

Keep a copy of the gas safety certificate and maintenance records ready for inspections or insurance claims.

Winter (December – February)

This is the season where heating and plumbing issues cause the most risk.

Emergency Callout Readiness

Ensure you have a company who can respond to out-of-hours problems like boiler breakdowns or frozen pipes. Huddersfield Gas & Plumbing offers reliable 24/7 support across Wakefield.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

It helps to remind tenants to keep heating on low when they’re away. Insulated pipes reduce the risk, but this can help too.

Monitor for Condensation or Mould

Ventilation is particularly important during the winter season. Check extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms are working properly.

Pressure Check on Boiler

Low pressure in winter often signals a leak or internal fault. If you’ve noticed this, it should be fixed immediately.

Radiator Balancing

This helps to ensure heat is distributed evenly throughout the home, especially in properties with multiple floors.

Why Work With a Local Specialist?

While many companies offer general plumbing and heating, few offer comprehensive services for landlords in Wakefield. Huddersfield Gas & Plumbing combines local knowledge with professional qualifications

You can rest assured we’re Gas Safe registered and experienced with everything from quick repairs to full system upgrades.

Simply make a booking online today.