Autumn Maintenance for Domestic and Commercial Properties

As the summer fades into the cool breezes of early autumn, property owners of all kinds need to start thinking about preparing their buildings for the harsher weather ahead. 

The generally mild weather of early autumn is a great time to carry out maintenance tasks for several reasons. One such reason is that it will ensure that your property remains in top condition throughout the battering it will take in the colder months. 

Preventative maintenance can also minimise the likelihood of property damage and reduce the cost and time needed to perform any necessary repairs down the line.

Whether you’re looking to protect your home, or you manage a commercial building, regular upkeep can help your property maintain its value and create a safe environment for all who live or work there.

From clearing gutters to servicing heating systems and more. Let’s dive into the key areas that require attention for this season and beyond…

Clearing Gutters and Drains

Autumn means falling leaves, which can quickly accumulate in your gutters and drains, leading to blockages. 

Blocked gutters can overflow, causing water to run down the walls of your property, leading to dampness and damage. 

Similarly, clogged drains can cause flooding, creating a serious problem for any type of property.

Gutters & drains tasks:

• Clear Gutters: Regularly check your gutters for leaves, twigs, and other debris. Clean them out to ensure water flows freely through the downpipes. If left unattended, blockages can freeze in the winter, leading to potential cracks or breaks in the guttering system.
• Check Downpipes: Make sure downpipes, also known as rainwater pipes, are clear and that they direct water away from the foundation of the building. Pooling water near the foundation can weaken the structure over time.
• Inspect Drains: Ensure that all external drains are free from debris and functioning properly. In some cases, you may need a professional to clear particularly stubborn blockages, especially in commercial buildings with more extensive drainage systems.

We offer drain services including CCTV camera surveys and drain jetting.

Servicing Heating Systems and Boilers

As temperatures start to drop, your heating system becomes essential for maintaining a comfortable living or working environment. 

Ensuring your boiler and/or heating system are in good condition before the onset of cold weather can save you from inconvenient and potentially dangerous breakdowns in the middle of winter. Moreover, an inefficient boiler can significantly increase your energy bills.

Heating system maintenance:

• Annual Boiler Service: Arrange for a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect and service your boiler. They will check for any issues that could lead to inefficient performance or dangerous malfunctions, such as carbon monoxide leaks.
• Bleed Radiators: In homes and commercial properties, radiators can develop air pockets, leading to uneven heating. Bleeding your radiators ensures they work efficiently and provide consistent warmth. If bleeding them doesn’t help, we can send an engineer to power flush your radiators.
• Check Thermostats: Test your thermostats to ensure they are functioning correctly. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause unnecessary energy consumption and uncomfortably high or low temperatures.

Plumbing Inspections

Freezing temperatures in later autumn and winter can cause water in your pipes to freeze and expand, leading to burst pipes and flooding. 

This is particularly common in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems. Earlier in the autumn is an ideal time to inspect your plumbing in order to prevent problems from occurring.

Plumbing maintenance tasks:

• Check for Leaks: Inspect visible pipes for signs of leaks or corrosion. In commercial properties, this is especially important in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
• Insulate Pipes: Pipes in unheated areas, such as garages, attics, or basements, should be insulated to protect against freezing. This is particularly important for external pipes or those in poorly insulated parts of the building.
• Test Taps and Toilets: Ensure all taps, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures are functioning properly. Look for signs of slow drainage, as this could indicate a blockage.

For inspections, repairs, installations, emergencies, and more, get a free over the phone quote from our expert plumbing team.

Windows play a pivotal role in your property’s insulation. Damaged or inefficient windows can lead to heat loss, causing your heating system to work harder and increasing energy bills. 

For commercial properties, poorly maintained windows can compromise security and could possibly give a negative impression to clients or prospective tenants.

Tasks for your windows:

• Inspect Window Seals: Check the seals around windows and doors for cracks or wear. If the seals are damaged warm air can escape, reducing energy efficiency.
• Repair or Replace Glazing: Double glazing is essential for maintaining heat and sound insulation. If any windows are cracked or fogged (a sign that the seal between double-glazed panes has broken), arrange for repair or replacement.
• Clean Windows: Early autumn is also a good time to clean your windows inside and out, removing summer dust and ensuring clear, streak-free views.

For more glazing services from Able, click here.

Security and Locks

Security should always be a priority, but as it gets darker earlier, it’s particularly important to ensure that properties are secure. Faulty locks, broken doors, or outdated security systems can leave your property vulnerable to theft or vandalism.

Tips to stay secure:

• Check Locks: Inspect all locks on doors and windows. If they are difficult to operate or show signs of wear, consider contacting our locksmith team to replace or repair them. In commercial properties, this is especially important for main entrances, fire exits, and any areas where valuable equipment is stored.
• Upgrade Security Systems: If your property has an alarm system, ensure it is functioning correctly. Assess whether your security system needs an upgrade, especially if you have had any issues in the past year.
• Outdoor Lighting: Install or check your outdoor security lighting. Motion-sensitive lights are a cost-effective way to put off potential intruders.

Check Your Roof

It’s important to check your roof regularly. Wind, rain, falling leaves, and even birds can wreak havoc on roofs, especially older ones. Missing or damaged tiles can lead to leaks or pest invasions, which can cause significant structural damage to your property if left unchecked…

Roof maintenance tasks:

• Check for Missing Tiles: Conduct a visual inspection of your roof to look for any missing or damaged tiles or shingles.
• Remove Moss and Debris: Moss and debris can accumulate on roofs, especially in shaded or damp areas. Left unchecked, this can trap moisture, leading to rot or leaks.
• Clean Chimneys and Vents: If your property has a chimney or roof vents, ensure they are free from blockages and properly capped to prevent animals or debris from entering.

Garden and Exterior Maintenance

Outdoor spaces can be affected by autumn weather in various ways. Dead leaves and debris can create hazards, while unkempt landscaping can lead to pest infestations and other problems.

Exterior maintenance tasks:

• Trim Trees and Bushes: Overhanging branches can break off during autumn winds, potentially damaging roofs, windows, or even vehicles. Trim back any trees or bushes near the property.
• Clear Pathways: Ensure that all pathways and parking areas are clear of debris and in good condition. For commercial properties or those trying to sell a property, this is important for both safety and aesthetics.
• Prepare Gardens: Get rid of leaves, mow the grass one last time before retreating into the warmth for the winter, and remove any dead plants. This will keep your garden looking tidy and prevent fallen leaves from building up and creating slippery surfaces.

Get Winter Ready with Able

Getting proactive and performing these maintenance tasks early in the autumn is essential to prepare your property for the colder months ahead. 

Doing so will give you peace of mind throughout the autumn and winter seasons, keeping your property safe, secure, and comfortable.

If you need assistance with your home or commercial property, we can help. With experts in 7 different trades - available nationwide 24/7 - our team is the perfect choice for property maintenance. 

Whether it’s an emergency or you need work performed at a time that suits your schedule, drop us a message today, or give us a call!