As Greta Thunberg’s global campaign has highlighted, climate change is very real and it’s affecting property right here, right now.
Rising rainfall, searing sunshine, soaring temperatures and faster winds can all affect our homes, potentially making them less windproof and watertight.
Whether you rent or own, this means that taking care of areas that are vulnerable to the effects of extreme weather – from summer heatwaves to winter storms – is a must.
Let s1homes show you how to ensure your home is climate-change ready.
Make a Checklist
If you’ve just bought or begun renting a property, the chances are there are many aspects of the building you aren’t even aware of yet. This is why it’s important to make a checklist of all those areas where damage can happen.
Inside, check for peeling paintwork and cracks in the plasterwork that might be signs of damp. Are your window seals and door draught excluders intact or do they need to be replaced?
Outside, no matter what time of year it is, wind and water can clog gutters and downpipes, so make sure these are kept clear. Also, look out for roof tiles that may have slipped: even the smallest of gaps can result in the biggest of leaks!
All exposed piping should be lagged before winter sets in to protect them against freezing. If you’re renting, ask your landlord to organise this.
If you discover your apartment has water entering from the roof in a top-floor flat, most often any repair costs will be shared by all the owners in your building. Your title deeds should have details of how to work out your share – you can get these from your mortgage lender, solicitor or the Registers of Scotland.
Act Immediately
When the issues brought about by weather are small they can be very easily managed but, the longer you wait, the greater the danger the problems will grow bigger.
So, once you’ve identified any concerns, take action right away to prevent the damage getting worse. Problems left unattended can ultimately require an emergency call-out – and more work and more cash in the long term.
Choose To Go Pro
While many of the jobs to safeguard your home can be carried out easily, even by the novice DIYer, sometimes it pays to bring in the professionals.
After all, getting the job done well is just as important as getting the job done. To find the trades person that suits your budget best, be sure to get quotes from two or three.
There’s one climate change you don’t have to worry about – moving to a brand new environment, thanks to the properties for sale and to rent on s1homes.