With expectations around rental property standards continuing to rise, landlords are being advised to make preventative maintenance a priority during the remainder of 2026. Focusing on a handful of key repair areas now could help reduce future costs while keeping homes compliant and safe.
George Edwards, Managing Director of Timberwise, says landlords should not assume the quieter months mean maintenance can be postponed. Instead, he believes now is the right time to identify emerging issues before they develop into expensive structural problems.
The guidance comes after reports that landlords in England may receive civil penalties of up to £7,000 where significant hazards are left unresolved, particularly in relation to damp, mould and electrical safety.
Edwards outlines five practical priorities for landlords.
1. Investigate before repairing
Edwards says damp patches and mould growth should be treated as warning signs rather than the problem itself. Hidden leaks, poor ventilation or deterioration within the building may all be responsible, making proper diagnosis essential before repair work begins.
2. Plan inspections throughout the year
Routine checks of roofing, guttering, walls, windows, flooring and internal finishes allow smaller defects to be corrected before they become larger maintenance issues affecting several parts of the property.
3. Appoint specialists with relevant experience
Properties of different ages and construction methods require different repair strategies. Edwards advises landlords to use contractors who understand the building type and can provide a clear link between inspection findings and recommended remedial work.
4. Check for seasonal damage
Summer weather can leave properties vulnerable by drying out sealants, affecting foundations in clay soils and exposing weaknesses in roofs and external walls. Early checks can reduce the risk of water entering buildings once wetter conditions return.
5. Maintain clear documentation
Keeping detailed records of inspections and repairs provides evidence that maintenance has been carried out responsibly. Edwards says this can become particularly valuable if landlords need to demonstrate compliance with housing standards.
He believes landlords who adopt a proactive maintenance programme are more likely to avoid major disruption, while those who delay repairs often face higher costs and more extensive remedial work later.
