Property Management: Why Proactive Maintenance Is More Important Than Ever
Property Management: Why Proactive Maintenance Is More Important Than Ever by Jaggard Macland LLP
Across the UK, weather patterns are changing at an unprecedented rate. For property owners and landlords, this shift presents a growing set of challenges that require planning and proactive management. Over the past few years, our property management team has observed clear impacts on the buildings we oversee, with increased rainfall and more frequent heavy downpours creating new vulnerabilities that can lead to costly damage if left unaddressed.
Climate Trends Affecting Properties
Recent climate data paints a concerning picture for property owners. Studies show that annual UK rainfall has increased by 8% over the past 30 years, with particularly notable changes in the intensity and frequency of storm events.
Shifting weather patterns represent a challenge to traditional property management services. What worked a decade ago may no longer be sufficient to protect your investment.
Common Weather-Related Challenges for Properties
Our property management specialists have identified several recurring issues that property owners are facing:
Water Management Problems
Heavy rainfall events are increasingly overwhelming existing drainage systems, particularly in older commercial properties. This leads to water pooling in car parks, around building foundations and sometimes results in water ingress that can damage internal structures and fixtures.
Vulnerable Industrial Buildings
Industrial units, which are common throughout the UK’s business parks, also present challenges. Properties with metal panelled roofing and box guttering systems are particularly susceptible to damage during heavy downpours. When gutters become overwhelmed or blocked, water can quickly find its way into the building, potentially damaging inventory, equipment and the structure itself.
Localised Flooding Issues
It’s not uncommon now to see areas experiencing flooding during intense rainfall events. When drains and gulleys can’t clear water quickly enough, both buildings and access routes can be compromised, affecting business operations and potentially damaging property.
Insurance Implications
Particularly concerning for property owners is the financial ripple effect of these climate changes. We’re seeing rising insurance premiums, with some policies now reducing or completely excluding coverage for water damage, particularly in properties that have made previous flooding claims.
Practical Preventative Measures for Landlords
Landlords can take various actionable steps to protect their properties from increased rainfall and potential water damage:
- upgrade drainage systems
- implement regular maintenance checks
- modify external areas
- update documentation and contracts
Property Management Expertise
At Jaggard Macland, our property management team takes a hands-on approach, helping landlords and occupiers stay ahead of these evolving risks. We combine local knowledge with management expertise to develop maintenance strategies designed to protect your property’s value whilst also controlling costs.
The changing climate means that waiting for problems to occur before addressing them is increasingly risky and more expensive in the long run. By implementing measures specific to your property’s needs, you can reduce the likelihood of serious damage and protect both your asset’s physical condition and its market value.
If you’re looking for practical, tailored advice on protecting your buildings from weather-related damage, our property management team is ready to help. With decades of experience managing diverse property portfolios, we have the expertise to manage your investment for the future.
Contact: Graham Atkinson
Direct line: 01494 689603
Mobile: 07802 765662
Email: gra@jaggardmacland.co.uk
You can see all of the commercial property listed by Jaggard Macland on NovaLoca here.
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