Owning a rental property in the countryside comes with different challenges. Large gardens, long driveways and quiet locations may attract tenants, but they also need regular care. Summer is a good time for landlords to check their properties. Warm weather, dry ground and heavy rain can all cause problems if maintenance is delayed. Here are some simple ways to keep your rural rental property in good condition.
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1. Keep gardens and outdoor spaces tidy
Rural properties often have larger gardens, trees and hedges. During summer, plants can grow quickly and become difficult to manage. Overgrown branches may damage fences, block paths or touch the roof. Long grass can also make outdoor spaces harder to use. Landlords should make sure trees, fences and paths are safe. Tenants may be responsible for everyday garden care if this is included in their tenancy agreement. For larger jobs, such as cutting tall trees, it is safer to hire a professional.
2. Check roofs, gutters and drains
Summer is a useful time to check for damage caused by winter weather. Look for loose roof tiles, blocked gutters and damaged drains. Leaves, moss and dirt can stop rainwater from flowing away properly. When water cannot drain, it may enter the building and cause damp or damage. Rural homes may also have private drainage systems, such as septic tanks. These need regular checks and maintenance. Fixing small problems early can help landlords avoid expensive repairs.
3. Look out for damp and mould
Damp and mould are not just winter problems. They can also appear during summer, especially in rooms with poor airflow. Check around windows, walls, bathrooms and kitchens for signs of moisture. Landlords should investigate reports of damp and mould and deal with the cause. Simply painting over mould will not solve the problem. Good ventilation helps, but leaks and building problems may need professional repairs.
4. Check water supplies
Some rural rental properties use private water supplies, such as wells or boreholes, instead of mains water. These systems need regular checks to make sure the water is safe to use. Landlords should also look for leaking pipes, low water pressure and problems with water tanks. Hot weather can put extra pressure on water supplies, so it is worth checking that everything works properly. If your property uses a private water supply, make sure you understand the testing and maintenance rules that apply.
5. Keep pests away
Rural homes may attract mice, rats, wasps and other pests, particularly when food or waste is left outside. Check for holes around doors, pipes and walls where pests could enter. Keep outdoor bins closed and make sure rubbish is collected regularly. If you notice signs of an infestation, arrange for the problem to be investigated. Dealing with pests early can prevent damage and make the property more comfortable for tenants.
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6. Check heating and electrical systems
Heating may not be used much during summer, but it still needs attention. Arrange servicing and safety checks when required. This can help identify problems before colder weather arrives. Landlords should also check that electrical installations are safe and that any required inspections are up to date. For rental properties in England, gas appliances and flues provided by the landlord generally need a safety check every 12 months. Electrical installations must normally be inspected and tested at least every five years. Keeping these checks up to date helps protect tenants and avoid unexpected problems.
7. Make sure the property is easy to reach
Country homes often have private roads, long driveways or shared access routes. Check for potholes, loose stones, damaged gates and overgrown plants that could make access difficult. Make sure emergency vehicles can reach the property where access is under your control. Landlords should also check who is responsible for maintaining shared roads or driveways before arranging repairs.
8. Plan repairs before tenants report problems
Regular property inspections can help landlords spot problems that tenants may not notice. Summer is a useful time to arrange outdoor repairs, painting and general maintenance. Before visiting an occupied rental property, agree a suitable time with the tenant and follow the legal notice requirements. Keep records of inspections, reported problems and completed work. This makes it easier to track maintenance and plan future repairs.
How Mullucks can help rural landlords
Looking after a rural rental property can take time, especially if you live far away. Gardens, drainage systems and older buildings may need more attention than expected. Mullucks can help landlords with property management, maintenance arrangements and tenant communication. If you would like support looking after your rural rental property, contact your local Mullucks team to discuss your options.
