January 17, 2024 · 3 min read
Getting the building ready for winter: the October checklist
Winter breakdowns are conceived in autumn. One afternoon's inspection, every October, is the most profitable maintenance of the year.
Water and roof
- Gutters and drains clear of leaves: October's first downpour finds the drain blocked, and the leak is served.
- A look at the roof (or a photo from a drone or the top floor): shifted tiles, open joints.
- Draining and checking the irrigation system if there is one (frost).
Central heating (where there is one)
Boiler service BEFORE switch-on, bleeding the communal radiators, and the switch-on date announced in advance (internal rule or building custom).
Lighting and access
- With fewer daylight hours, the timers on the outdoor lighting need resetting.
- Check the emergency lighting and the door entry system (damp punishes outdoor panels).
The small big details
- A draught excluder on the entrance door (comfort and savings).
- Salt or de-icer in the store cupboard if your area freezes.
- The on-call plumber's or heating engineer's contact visible to everybody.
Why October
In November and December the trades are swamped and charging emergency rates. The same inspection in October is cheaper, calmer — and it arrives before the breakdown does.
Keep reading
The community in summer: the pool, absences and a half-empty building
Getting July and August ready: security with empty flats, watering, pests and who answers if something happens with everyone away.
Snow and ice in the building: responsibilities and survival kit
Icy pavements, roofs that shed their load and liability for slips: what communities in cold climates should have ready.
Moving day in the building: lift bookings, damage and getting along
The riskiest day for the common areas, organised: notice, protection and who pays for the scrape.
Stop reading about managing. Try it.
Step into a sample building with everything working and try it yourself.