As property regulations become more demanding during the second half of 2026, landlords are being encouraged to focus on five essential areas of maintenance that can help prevent costly repairs, minimise disruption for tenants and demonstrate that homes are being properly managed.
George Edwards, Managing Director of property care specialist Timberwise believes landlords should use the coming months to assess the condition of their properties rather than waiting until problems become obvious. He says taking a preventative approach now can reduce repair bills and avoid recurring defects.
The advice follows reports that landlords in England could face civil penalties of up to £7,000 if serious housing hazards remain unresolved, with damp, mould and electrical safety receiving increased scrutiny.
Edwards has identified five key maintenance priorities for landlords over the months ahead.
1. Find the source of the problem
“Visible damp or mould is rarely the root cause,” said Edwards. “Discoloured walls or musty odours often point to hidden leaks, poor airflow, defective pointing or structural timber decay. Simply cleaning the surface or repainting it without addressing the underlying issue is likely to result in the same problem returning.”
2. Carry out regular property inspections
Edwards recommends routine inspections of roofs, gutters, walls, windows, suspended floors and internal finishes instead of relying on tenants to report issues. Spotting defects early often keeps repairs straightforward, while delays can lead to damage affecting plaster, timber, masonry and indoor air quality.
3. Use contractors with suitable expertise
According to Edwards, selecting the right contractor is just as important as identifying the defect. Different property types require different approaches, so surveys and repair recommendations should reflect the building’s construction. Choosing experienced specialists can help avoid unnecessary work and reduce delays.
4. Address summer wear before wetter weather arrives
Although damp is often associated with winter, Edwards says summer conditions can create problems that become more serious later in the year. Dry ground, ageing sealants and roof deterioration can all contribute to water ingress. He advises landlords to check for cracked render, damaged sealants, blocked ventilation, sticking windows and moisture around external walls.
5. Record every inspection and repair
Edwards says thorough documentation is becoming increasingly important as enforcement increases. Keeping records of inspections, findings and completed repairs helps demonstrate that a property has been actively managed if questions arise from local authorities.
He added that landlords who deal with maintenance before defects become severe generally face fewer expensive repairs than those who wait until problems are impossible to ignore. The second half of 2026 offers an ideal opportunity to review previous repairs and ensure they resolved the underlying issue rather than simply improving appearances.
