Summer landlord checklist: How to prepare your rental property for summer

Summer. A time for holidays, sunshine, ice cream and a change of pace for many tenants.

For landlords, it’s often a different story.

Although it may seem like a quieter spell in theory, summer can be one of the busiest times of the year behind the scenes for landlords. One estate agency found that they received 62% of all tenant enquiries in 2025 in June, July and August  ¹.

With demand often peaking in the summer months and potentially faster turnarounds between tenancies, summer may present a different set of considerations for landlords ². That’s why taking the time to carry out a seasonal check can make all the difference. It can help you stay on top of any potential problems, and you can also check that your insurance still reflects how your property is used.

To help keep your property safe and your business running smoothly, check out this practical checklist of hints and tips below:

The risk of theft increases when properties are unoccupied³.  Additionally, issues like leaks may go undetected for longer, so it’s important to know if/when your property will be vacant for a spell and what impact this can have on your insurance.

Stay one step ahead by:

Confirming your tenant’s holiday plans to see if there will be any extended absences

Planning ahead for any spells where the property is vacant

Arranging checks if the property will be empty

Keeping emergency contact details up to date

Higher tenant turnover and increased usage can take its toll on a property. Keeping on top of maintenance may help reduce the risk of more serious issues arising and disruption from trying to do repairs over busy periods.

Stay one step ahead by:

Inspecting the roof, gutters and drains

Checking fences, decking and outdoor structures

Testing alarms and electrics

Ensuring good ventilation to manage heat and moisture

Warmer weather often means more time spent outside and if it’s been particularly hot and dry, it can increase the risk of fire spreading more quickly.  A few simple precautions can help protect both your tenants and your property.

Stay one step ahead by:

Setting clear guidance around BBQ or firepit use

Checking fire safety equipment, like fire doors, alarms, extinguishers, fire blankets etc.

Making sure appliances are safe and in good working order and where appropriate, PAT tested

Considering ways to keep indoor temperatures manageable such as installing air conditioning, fans or blackout blinds

Keeping your property secure can help to deter opportunistic thieves, but it is also typically a condition of cover in insurance policies. Requirements can vary between insurers and the different types of properties, so it’s important that you check what applies to you and make sure you’re meeting what’s outlined in your policy.

Stay one step ahead by:

Reviewing your policy documents to understand your security requirements

Checking all locks on doors and windows are working properly and locked

Considering whether timed lighting would be beneficial if the property is empty regularly

Encouraging tenants to secure their valuables before leaving

Checking sheds, garages and outbuildings are secured properly

During the warmer months, it’s only natural that outdoor spaces will be used more frequently. Often landlords are responsible for keeping these spaces safe for tenants and visitors.

Stay one step ahead by:

Keeping gardens tidy

Repairing any wobbly paving or potential trip hazards

Trimming back any overgrown plants or trees

Making shared areas safe, accessible and welcoming

Staying compliant with any legal or safety obligations is essential if you want to protect your tenants and avoid complications later on.

Stay one step ahead by:

Ensuring you’re familiar with your legal and safety obligations and that you meet any requirements

Checking gas, electrical and fire safety inspections are up to date

Reviewing HMO requirements if relevant

Ensuring documentation is accurate and current

Seasonal changes in occupancy may have an impact on your cover, so it’s worth regularly having a closer look and refreshing yourself.

Stay one step ahead by:

Checking cover to see if there’s anything you need to adhere to, for example if the property is unoccupied

Reviewing protection for damage and loss of rent

Making sure the property, any contents that you’re responsible for and fixtures are correctly valued

Considering liability and legal expenses cover

Details of your cover can be found in the policy documents issued to you by your provider, including the terms, conditions and exclusions applicable.

Sources:

1. Best Time To List A Rental Property In The Uk Revealed | John Shepherd

2. Why Summer Is One of the Best Times to Let Your Property

3. How to avoid damage to an empty property | NRLA