We know you're excited to ring in the new year, but we also want you to be prepared for some of the risks that come with a new year. Here are some of our top tips for staying safe:
-Always make sure your smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries.
Make sure all smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries installed at least once a year (or more often if needed). Smoke alarms should be tested monthly by pressing the test button and listening for the alarm to sound. If you hear it sounding intermittently, or not at all, contact your landlord immediately so they can fix it before something bad happens.
-Don't leave candles unattended.
Candles, fireplaces and other open flames are a great way to add ambiance to your home. However, they can be dangerous if not used with care.
If you're planning to use candles, make sure they are placed where they aren't easily reachable by children or pets. And when you're done with your candle, make sure you blow out the flame and dispose of it safely. Never leave candles unattended or allow children or pets near them.
-Be sure to keep all common areas clean so it's easy to keep an eye on things.
As a tenant, you have a responsibility to keep your own space clean, but it's important that you also do what you can to keep the common areas in tip-top shape. This means keeping the bathroom, kitchen and living room clean at all times—and by doing so, you help us maintain our reputation as a pristine community for all.
-Cigarette smoking relatives or guests
As you may have let your property to a non-smoking tenant, we suggest you remind them about visitors at holidays. Not leaving any permanent bad smells in your property, but for the sake of fire safety, remind them if there is any risk of leaving lit cigarettes on surfaces or discarded butts in ashtrays.
The best thing you can do is to take care of it before it happens! If you can't be there with your tenants when they arrive home from their holiday, make sure they know what you expect from them and their guests before they go away.
Bluestone Properties
We are a London-based letting agency and estate agent. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest level of service, so that you can buy or sell your home with confidence and peace of mind.
We can help you navigate the home buying process from start to finish, or we can just be a resource for you as you make decisions about your future.
