As temperatures drop and daylight fades, landlords face a key opportunity to prepare their rental properties. Autumn is the perfect season to carry out maintenance, double-check compliance, strengthen tenant relationships, and get ahead of the curve before winter sets in.
By taking action now, landlords can protect their investment, avoid costly repairs, and keep tenants happy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you should prioritise this season.
Prioritise property maintenance before winter
When the cold weather hits, small issues can quickly snowball into major problems. Tackling maintenance tasks in autumn means fewer emergency call-outs, happier tenants, and healthier long-term returns.
Essential checks to complete now:
- Boiler servicing
Arrange a check with a Gas Safe-registered engineer. A properly serviced boiler reduces the risk of breakdowns and improves energy efficiency. Heating issues are the most common winter complaint from tenants; prevention is far cheaper than a December repair call. - Roof inspections
Even one missing tile can let in water and cause dampness. Book a quick inspection now, before storms make access dangerous and damage worse. - Gutters and downpipes
Autumn leaves clog gutters fast. Overflowing gutters lead to leaks and mould inside the property; a simple clean is often enough to prevent it. - Window and door seals
Draughts make homes harder to heat and push up energy bills. Replacing seals is a cost-effective fix that tenants will appreciate. - Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
It’s a legal requirement that alarms are working at the start of every tenancy. Testing them now ensures tenants are safe and landlords remain compliant. - Outdoor lighting and pathways
With shorter days, lighting is vital for safety. Make sure external lights are working and paths are clear of leaves and moss.
Landlords using a fully managed service with Ellis & Co. can rest assured that these seasonal checks are handled by local experts.
Stay compliant with safety and EPC requirements
Regulations are always evolving in the private rented sector, and autumn is an ideal time to double-check your obligations.
Gas and electrical safety
- Gas Safety Certificates must be renewed annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Landlords must provide tenants with a copy within 28 days.
- Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) are required every five years in England. A qualified electrician must carry this out, and copies must be shared with tenants.
Falling behind on either of these can result in fines and difficulties regaining possession of your property if needed.
EPC requirements and future guidance
At present, rental properties must hold an EPC rating of E or higher. While proposed legislation to raise this minimum to C by 2028 remains under government review, there’s growing pressure on landlords to improve energy efficiency.
Simple upgrades can make a big difference:
- Adding loft or cavity wall insulation
- Installing double glazing
- Upgrading boilers and heating controls
- Switching to LED lighting
With tenants increasingly focused on energy bills, energy-efficient properties are more attractive and let faster. Acting now spreads the cost of improvements over time and helps future-proof your investment.
Ellis & Co. landlords benefit from ongoing compliance support, ensuring you never miss a deadline or fall behind regulatory changes.
Review your rental yield and plan for the year ahead
Autumn isn’t just about practical checks; it’s also a strategic moment to review your rental income and investment performance.
Market insights
According to Rightmove’s Rental Trends Tracker, average asking rents in the UK rose by 7.8% year-on-year in 2025, but the pace of growth is slowing. Zoopla also reports that demand remains strong, but affordability is now a pressing issue, especially in larger urban markets.
This means landlords should balance yield growth with tenant retention.
Reviewing your yield
Work out your gross yield by dividing annual rental income by the property’s value. For a more accurate picture, calculate net yield by factoring in costs like:
- Mortgage payments
- Insurance
- Letting agent fees
- Maintenance and repairs
- Void periods
If yields are underperforming, you might consider:
- Adjusting rent in line with the local market
- Reducing voids through proactive tenant care
- Reviewing mortgage deals
- Investing in improvements that boost value and desirability
Ellis & Co. offers free rental valuations to help landlords benchmark their properties against current market trends.
Plan for possible regulation changes
The Renters Rights Bill remains under debate but is expected to reshape the lettings sector when introduced. Key proposals include:
- The abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions
- The introduction of a Decent Homes Standard for rented properties
- A national landlord portal to improve transparency
- Stronger tenant rights around pets and notice periods
While not yet law, it’s wise to prepare early. Ensuring tenancy agreements, property standards, and processes are already robust makes transitions smoother when new rules take effect.
Ellis & Co. monitors legislative developments closely, keeping landlords updated and compliant at every step.
Protect your property during void periods
If your rental becomes empty this autumn, take steps to protect it from seasonal risks.
Key actions to safeguard a vacant property:
- Keep the heating on a low setting to prevent frozen pipes
- Set light timers to give the impression of occupancy
- Secure all windows, doors, and outbuildings
- Arrange regular inspections, either yourself or through a managed service
- Clear leaves and debris from outdoor areas to maintain kerb appeal
Ellis & Co. landlords can opt for vacant property management, ensuring homes stay secure and in good condition between tenancies.
Tax and financial planning for landlords
While the tax year ends in April, autumn is a good time to review finances and prepare for self-assessment.
Tips for smart financial planning:
- Log deductible expenses now
Repairs, insurance, letting agent fees, mileage, and safety checks can all reduce your tax bill. - Forecast your liability
Reviewing income statements early gives you time to plan for payments. - Plan improvements strategically
Upgrades for energy efficiency or essential maintenance may qualify as deductible expenses or capital allowances. - Seek professional advice
Landlord tax rules are complex. An accountant or specialist adviser can help you make the most of allowances.
Landlords with Ellis & Co. receive detailed statements and support that make end-of-year reporting simpler.
Why landlords trust Ellis & Co.
Managing a rental property can be rewarding, but it also takes time, knowledge, and effort. Partnering with a professional agent allows landlords to enjoy the returns while minimising the stress.
With Ellis & Co., landlords benefit from:
- Proactive property maintenance and inspections
- Full compliance management for safety and legal checks
- Rent collection and arrears handling
- Transparent financial reporting
- Tenant find and full management services tailored to your needs
Our local experts combine market knowledge with personal service, giving landlords confidence that their property is in safe hands.
Book your free rental valuation
As autumn sets in, take the opportunity to check your property’s performance, review your rent, and get ahead for 2026.
Speak to your local Ellis & Co. lettings expert today. Preparation today means peace of mind tomorrow.
