An Annual Roof Check for Wellington Rental Properties
Rental homes in Wellington take a beating from the weather, and tenants are not always quick to mention a small stain on the ceiling. By the time a leak is reported, the insulation may be wet and the lining damaged. A yearly roof check is one of the simplest ways for a landlord to stay ahead of that.
Many owners make booking a professional roof inspection part of their routine before winter, alongside clearing the spouting. It gives a clear record of the roof's condition and a list of anything that needs doing, ideally with photos.
What a yearly check covers
- Roof surface condition, coatings and any corrosion
- Fixings, ridges and flashings around chimneys and vents
- Spouting, downpipes and overflow points
- The roof space for damp, leaks and insulation that has been disturbed
- Any signs of pests or birds nesting
Why it suits rentals
A dry roof protects the ceiling insulation that rentals are required to have, and it keeps the home warmer and drier for tenants. Catching a loose flashing early is far less disruptive than arranging ceiling repairs with tenants in place.
Working with tenants
Give tenants proper notice, explain that the roofer will mostly be outside, and ask whether they have noticed any drips, stains or noises in wind. Their observations often point straight to the problem area.
Keep the records
File each year's report with the property records. It shows a pattern of maintenance, helps with insurance questions and makes planning bigger roof work much easier.
Read next: Membrane Decks Over Garages: Common Leak Points and What to Do When a Tree Comes Down on Your Roof.