Letting agents issue guidance on managing heat risks in rental properties

Letting agents issue guidance on managing heat risks in rental properties

Letting agents from the Lomond group have issued new guidance for landlords and tenants to manage risks posed by the ongoing heatwave, highlighting challenges particularly in apartments and modern homes that retain heat.

As the UK experiences its third heatwave of the summer, letting agents Thornley Groves and Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward have emphasised the importance of cooperation between landlords and tenants to maintain safe and comfortable homes during extreme temperatures. The advice focuses on practical steps to reduce heat impact, ensure proper ventilation, and prevent property damage.

Matthew Smith, managing director at Thornley Groves, and Esmee Jones, lettings managing director at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, both stress the growing importance of long-term property maintenance and tenant communication as extreme weather events become more frequent.

New guidance details practical steps for landlords and tenants

The guidance issued by these lettings agencies outlines specific actions landlords should take to mitigate heat risks. Regular communication with tenants is encouraged to promptly address issues such as ventilation problems, malfunctioning fans, or signs of heat-related damage. Ensuring extractor fans, trickle vents, and windows function correctly is critical to maintaining airflow and reducing indoor temperatures.

Landlords are also advised to maintain any fixed air conditioning or mechanical ventilation systems to prevent breakdowns during peak heat periods. Heat-reducing improvements such as thermal curtains, reflective blinds, solar-control window films, or external shading are recommended to reduce solar gain and enhance energy efficiency.

Outdoor areas including gardens and communal spaces require attention too, with suggestions to use drought-tolerant plants and water-efficient maintenance to cope with heat stress.

Tenants are advised to keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, create cross-ventilation by opening windows at cooler times, and use electrical appliances strategically to avoid adding unnecessary heat. Safe and efficient use of fans is also encouraged, alongside vigilance for heat-related property issues like warped flooring or sticking doors, which should be reported promptly.

Context of increasing heatwaves and implications for rental sector

Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent in the UK, posing new challenges for the private rented sector. Apartments and modern homes, often built with materials that retain heat, can become uncomfortable and even unsafe during heatwaves. This has implications for landlords’ obligations under property standards and safety regulations, as well as for tenant wellbeing.

While current legislation does not specifically mandate heat mitigation measures, landlords have a duty to maintain properties in a safe condition. Failure to address heat-related issues could lead to complaints or legal action if tenants’ health or safety is compromised. The guidance from letting agents reflects an emerging recognition that heat management should be part of routine property maintenance and tenant communication strategies.

These developments align with wider government and sector discussions on climate resilience in housing, though detailed regulatory requirements remain under review. Landlords and agents should monitor emerging policies and best practice to ensure compliance and tenant satisfaction.

Practical effects for landlords and letting agents managing heat risks

For landlords, this guidance means adopting a more proactive approach to property management during hot weather. Regular inspections of ventilation and cooling equipment, timely repairs, and consideration of simple heat-reducing upgrades can prevent damage and improve tenant comfort. Maintaining clear communication channels with tenants is essential to quickly identify and resolve heat-related problems.

Letting agents will need to support landlords by providing advice, coordinating maintenance, and managing tenant expectations. They may also need to update tenancy information packs or guidance to include heatwave preparedness advice. For portfolios that include apartments or modern builds, particular attention should be paid to the risk of overheating and the suitability of existing ventilation systems.

These measures may involve some additional cost and effort, but they can reduce the risk of property damage claims and improve tenant retention. Landlords should also consider the potential benefits of energy efficiency improvements that mitigate heat while reducing running costs.

Uncertainties and areas to monitor going forward

While the guidance is practical, it does not yet reflect any formal regulatory changes specific to heat management in rental properties. The private rented sector awaits clearer government policy on climate-related housing standards, which may introduce new landlord obligations in the future.

There is also uncertainty about the extent to which landlords can or should invest in heat mitigation measures, especially in older properties where retrofitting may be costly or complex. Balancing tenant comfort, safety, and affordability will remain a challenge.

Landlords and agents should stay informed about any updates to housing regulations or safety standards related to extreme weather. They should also be aware of potential insurance implications if properties are damaged during heatwaves and ensure that maintenance records and tenant communications are well documented.

Steps landlords should take now to prepare for heat risks

• Review ventilation and cooling systems in each property, arranging servicing or repairs as needed.
• Consider low-cost heat-reducing improvements such as thermal curtains or reflective window films.
• Communicate proactively with tenants about heatwave safety and encourage prompt reporting of issues.
• Inspect outdoor spaces and coordinate with contractors to ensure drought-tolerant and water-efficient maintenance.
• Keep detailed records of maintenance, tenant communications, and any heat-related incidents for compliance and risk management.
• Monitor government guidance and sector updates on climate resilience and housing standards.

Supporting landlords with heatwave property management

The Landlord Association (TLA) offers members access to compliance resources and practical information that can assist with managing properties during extreme weather. Through TLA’s BETA testing platform ORBIT, landlords and letting agents can organise property records, monitor maintenance activities, and keep track of tenant communications related to heat risks. ORBIT’s tools help maintain evidence of compliance and support proactive property management, which is increasingly important as weather patterns change.

Membership also provides access to expert guidance on regulatory developments and best practice for maintaining safe, comfortable rental homes. Landlords can explore TLA membership and learn more about ORBIT BETA access to help prepare their portfolios for the challenges posed by heatwaves and other climate impacts.

As extreme heat becomes a more regular feature of UK summers, landlords and agents must adapt their management practices to protect properties and tenants. Staying informed and taking early action on ventilation, cooling, and maintenance will be key to reducing risks and meeting future regulatory expectations.

Sources: Letting Agent Today