Tag Archive for: Property Checklist

Summer Property Checklist: Essential Checks Before You Go Away

Summer holidays are meant to be relaxing. Whether you’re away for a long weekend or a two-week break, the last thing you want is a phone call saying there’s a problem at home.

Unfortunately, empty properties can be vulnerable. A small leak, an electrical fault, or a security issue can go unnoticed for days. By the time the problem is discovered, the damage may already be significant.

The good news is that a few simple checks before you leave can help reduce the risk.

Here’s a practical summer property checklist to work through before you lock the door and head off.

Turn Off the Water Supply

Water damage remains one of the most common causes of property insurance claims.

A leaking washing machine hose or a failed pipe connection can release a surprising amount of water in a short time.

If your property will be empty for several days, consider turning off the water supply at the mains.

It takes a few moments and could prevent a major problem.

Check for Existing Leaks

Before you leave, take a quick walk around the property.

Look for:

  • Dripping taps
  • Water stains on ceilings
  • Damp patches
  • Leaking appliances
  • Signs of mould

If anything looks unusual, investigate it before you travel. Small leaks rarely resolve on their own.

Unplug Non-Essential Electrical Items

Many appliances can be safely unplugged while you’re away.

Consider disconnecting:

  • Televisions
  • Computers
  • Kitchen appliances
  • Chargers

This reduces the risk of fire and protects devices from power surges during storms.

Keep essential items, such as alarms and security systems, connected.

Test Smoke Alarms

It sounds obvious, but many people forget.

Before leaving, press the test button on each smoke alarm.

A working smoke alarm remains one of the simplest ways to reduce the impact of a fire.

Secure Windows and Doors

Before leaving, check all windows and doors.

Pay particular attention to:

  • Ground-floor windows
  • Garage doors
  • Side entrances
  • Conservatories

Even slightly open windows can let water in during heavy rain.

Check the Roof and Gutters

You do not need to carry out a full inspection.

A quick visual check from ground level is often sufficient.

Look for:

  • Loose roof tiles
  • Overflowing gutters
  • Visible damage
  • Blocked drainage

Summer storms can arrive suddenly, and existing issues often worsen when heavy rain hits.

Ask Someone to Check In

If possible, ask a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour to keep an eye on the property.

They can:

  • Collect the post
  • Open and close the curtains
  • Check for signs of leaks
  • Report anything unusual

A quick visit every few days can provide peace of mind.

Consider Smart Monitoring

Many homeowners now use smart devices to monitor their property remotely.

These can include:

  • Water leak detectors
  • Smart cameras
  • Alarm systems
  • Temperature monitors

While they do not prevent problems, they can alert you much sooner.

Why Preparation Matters

Most property damage becomes costly because it goes unnoticed.

A leak discovered within an hour is very different from one found two weeks later.

The same applies to fire, storm, and security incidents.

Taking a little time before you leave can help protect your property while you enjoy your holiday.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

If you return home to find water, fire, or storm-related damage, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

Our teams provide emergency response and professional restoration services throughout the UK. We assess the damage, prevent secondary damage, and help restore properties to normal as quickly as possible.

If you need support, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

Facilities Managers: Your March Property Risk Checklist

March can catch facilities managers off guard. Winter damage begins to become evident. Spring rain starts to fall. Heating systems are still operating, but buildings are already transitioning into a new season. It’s a month of change, and that makes it risky.

A structured March property risk checklist helps you identify issues early, before they cause disruption, downtime, or costly claims.

Here’s what to review.

1. Inspect Roofs and Drainage Systems

Winter weather deteriorates roofing materials. Frost enlarges small cracks. Wind loosens tiles and flashing. Heavy rain then seeps in.

Check for:

  • Loose or missing tiles
  • Blocked gutters and downpipes
  • Standing water on flat roofs
  • Overflowing drainage during rainfall

Water ingress frequently begins at roof level and propagates through ceilings and wall cavities unnoticed.

2. Check for Hidden Water Damage

March is when damp patches start to appear. Warmer air uncovers what winter has left behind.

Look for:

  • Ceiling stains
  • Peeling paint
  • Damp smells in plant rooms
  • Moisture around window frames

Water damage in commercial properties spreads rapidly through voids and service routes. Early detection minimises downtime and claim costs.

3. Review HVAC and Ventilation Systems

Heating systems have operated diligently throughout winter. Now is the moment to evaluate their performance.

Check:

  • Condensation build-up
  • Leaks from air conditioning units
  • Blocked filters
  • Poor airflow

Poor ventilation increases the risk of condensation and mould, especially in offices, retail spaces, and healthcare settings.

4. Test Fire Safety Systems

Seasonal changes often reveal faults.

Test:

  • Fire alarms
  • Emergency lighting
  • Sprinkler systems
  • Smoke detectors

Fire safety compliance is subject to increased scrutiny. A minor fault left unaddressed can pose a serious threat.

5. Assess External Grounds and Drainage

Spring rain reveals weaknesses in external areas.

Inspect:

  • Surface water pooling near entrances
  • Cracked paving
  • Drain covers and gullies
  • Perimeter drainage

Poor drainage increases slip risks and internal flooding.

6. Check High Risk Internal Areas

Certain areas need more attention in March:

  • Kitchens and food preparation areas
  • Toilets and washrooms
  • Basements and storage rooms
  • Plant and boiler rooms

Leaks in these areas often remain undetected until damage spreads.

7. Review Insurance and Incident Reporting Processes

March is an ideal time to review your emergency procedures.

Confirm:

  • Emergency contact numbers
  • Internal reporting steps
  • Insurance documentation processes
  • Preferred restoration partners

When water or fire damage happens, quick action minimises business disruption.

Why March Matters for Facilities Managers

March falls between two seasons. It reveals winter damage while bringing new risks. Facilities managers who conduct structured property inspections now reduce reactive callouts later.

Small maintenance issues rarely remain small in commercial environments. Early intervention safeguards staff, visitors, and operations.

When to Call in Professional Support

If you detect water ingress, fire damage, or mould growth, acting swiftly helps limit the spread and disruption.

ServiceMaster Restore supports commercial properties across the UK with emergency water damage restoration, fire and smoke recovery, and mould remediation. Our teams collaborate with facilities managers and insurers to reduce downtime and manage costs.

If your building shows signs of damage this March, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help.