Plumbing tips to add value to your property

plumbing changes

Plumbing tips to add value to your property

If you are a landlord or property developer and you are preparing to sell your property soon, then there are so many ways that you can add value so it sells for more in the housing market.

This doesn’t necessarily mean major changes like a massive extension, but these small plumbing changes will upgrade your home very tactfully!

Upgrade your pipes

If you are renovating an old build, then your pipes will need updating.

Pipes that are galvanised are prone to internal corrosion, which can give water an unpleasant taste.

Lead pipes will also need replacing as lead can cause health risks if it taints the water you drink.

Plumbers recommend PVC pipes for waste and copper pipes for a clean water supply.

Improving your pipes will lead to better water supplies, drainage systems and the overall functionality and safety of your home.

Time for a new shower or kitchen sink

As well as improving the plumbing system of your home, having a new shower, bath, or kitchen sink put in will increase the aesthetic appeal of your home.

Check out the best- and worst-rated appliance providers here.

Repair leaky drains

Even if your drains are not clogged, leaking or seemingly in need of replacing, having a local plumbing engineer come and inspect your drains will ensure that all is running smoothly in your home.

PVC pipes prevent future blockages, so are a good option for replacement.

If you are based in London, a trained plumbing technician can be with you in no time. Read more.

Check your water heater

It is absolutely vital that the water heater in the home you plan to sell is completely functional, up-to-date and well serviced.

Seek advice from a plumber to find out the right option for your home.

Changing your water heater can help you save energy and money in the long-term if you choose an eco-friendly one. 

Add another bathroom

This will require more renovation work, however, if your home only has one bathroom, then adding another one will definitely increase its value.

You can kit out your new bathroom with the highest-spec appliances to make it modern and trendy.

Talking through the appliance options with a plumber can help you know what will be best for your home.

Plumbing upgrades can help add a significant amount of value to your home. It will therefore not only benefit you to upgrade your plumbing but will appeal to your prospective buyers too.

See what else prospective buyers are looking for in a new home.

Tips for landlords: spotting pests in your premises

infestation in your rental property

How to prevent infestations in your rental property

Landlords have an obligation to ensure the health and safety of their tenants. This includes preventing the possibility of rat or insect infestations.

Nobody wants to share their home with rats, mice, ants or bedbugs.

Not only does a landlord need to take preventative measures, but the tenants need to look after the property too to help avoid infestations.

In some cases, the landlord can blame the tenant for causing an infestation if they have not looked after the property.

Learn more about the obligations of landlords and tenants.

What are the warning signs of an infestation?

Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, here are some infestation warning signs to look out for:

  • Droppings: Look out for small and dark pellets in cupboards, under the sink, or near bins.
  • Holes in walls, skirting boards or doors: Rats and mice might chew holes to get into your home.
  • Chewed food or boxes: Mice will gnaw through boxes to get at the food inside, or to make a nest.
  • Scratching noises: Are there any scuttering or scratching noises in walls, ceilings or underneath floorboards?
  • Foul smell: You may smell a musky odour is mice are living in your home, or a foul smell if they die underneath floorboards.
  • Electrical issues: Mice are not afraid to chew anything in their path. You may have unexplained wiring faults.

If you suspect a problem or infestation, it is important to take the following steps:

  1. Identify the pest that you think you have.
  2. Clean your home as much as possible.
  3. Seek professional help. Trained exterminators will use safe chemicals to solve your rodent infestation. Read more. 
  4. Perform preventative measures to help avoid a future infestation in your rental property.

How to prevent pest problems in your property:

Store food correctly:

  • Ensure that food is kept in airtight containers.
  • Clean away crumbs from food preparation.
  • Regularly sweep, hoover and clean your kitchen floors, cabinets and surfaces.

Mouse-proof your home:

  • Seal any cracks or crevices in doors, windows, ceilings, skirting boards and even rooves.
  • Seal up leaking pipes or drains.
  • Keep your home as clean as possible. Here are some tips.