The Christmas period is one of the most challenging times for property management. Trades are limited, offices close, and cold weather increases the risk of breakdowns. For landlords, being unprepared can mean expensive emergency callouts and unhappy tenants during the festive season.
At RE/MAX Estate Agents, we help landlords plan so their properties stay safe, warm, and problem-free throughout December and early January. Here’s the essential guide to staying ahead of winter issues.
❄ 1. Prepare for the “Big 3” Christmas Emergencies
Most holiday callouts fall into three critical categories:
🔥 Heating & boiler breakdowns
Cold weather puts strain on heating systems, and tenants use them more frequently.
💧 Burst or frozen pipes
Temperatures can drop sharply overnight, causing major leaks.
⚡ Electrical faults
Extra Christmas lights, heaters, and cooking appliances can overload circuits.
Ensuring these three areas are stable before late December dramatically reduces the number of emergencies.
🔧 2. Book Any Repairs Before Contractors Close
December is the busiest month for heating engineers, plumbers, and electricians.
Landlords should:
- Book servicing or repairs early in the month
- Confirm availability for emergency callouts
- Collect alternative contractor contacts as backups
- Set realistic expectations with tenants
A proactive check in early December often prevents a costly callout on Christmas Eve.
📞 3. Give Tenants a Clear “Christmas Contact Sheet”
Tenants must know precisely who to contact, and when.
Your contact sheet should include:
- Office closing dates
- Emergency contractor numbers
- What counts as an emergency
- What is not an emergency
- Expected response times during the holidays
When tenants have the correct information, 60–70% of unnecessary calls disappear.
🏠 4. Complete a Winter Safety Check Before the Holidays
A quick inspection (or tenant self-check guide) helps spot early signs of problems.
Checklist:
- Boiler pressure stable
- Radiators heating evenly
- Exterior pipes insulated
- Windows properly sealing
- Smoke & CO alarms are working
- Guttering clear of debris
- Outdoor lights and pathways are safe
Minor defects in December can become major issues by January.
💨 5. Educate Tenants on Preventing Winter Problems
Many winter emergencies come from simple household issues:
- Tenants switching heating off entirely during cold snaps
- Not ventilating bathrooms, causing mould
- Blocking radiators with furniture
- Leaving taps dripping without reporting the issue
Send a simple, friendly guide covering:
- How to use the thermostat
- How to prevent condensation
- What to do if the boiler loses pressure
- How to avoid frozen pipes
Preventing issues is easier than fixing them.
✨ 6. Plan for Delays Christmas and New Year Mean Limited Availability
Even with the best preparation, holiday delays are inevitable.
Make tenants aware that:
- Same-day repairs may not be possible
- Non-urgent issues may need to wait until January
- Emergency repairs will be prioritised
- Callout fees may be higher over Christmas
This manages expectations and avoids frustration.
🧾 7. Review Insurance & Emergency Cover Before December 20th
Landlords should confirm:
- Boiler cover is active
- Emergency home cover includes Christmas callouts
- Excess amounts are known
- Tenants understand their responsibilities
Insurance can save thousands during winter.
🎄 8. A Well-Planned Christmas Means Fewer Emergencies
By preparing early, landlords can:
- Avoid costly callouts
- Keep tenants safe and warm
- Protect their investment property
- Enjoy their own Christmas without constant interruptions
At REMAX Estate Agents, we support landlords with winter checks, repair coordination, tenant communication, and complete management throughout the festive season.
