Question 1

How should I prepare for the colder weather?

Accepted Answer

Whilst snowy weather can be exciting, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. Below are some key tips to help you stay prepared during snowy and icy conditions:

Stock Up on Essentials: Make sure you have enough food, water, and other essential supplies in case heavy snow limits travel.

Be Ready for Power Outages: Keep batteries, candles, and a flashlight on hand as a backup for potential power cuts.

Check Your Heating System: Ensure your heating is working correctly and switch off any summer settings. Report any issues immediately.

Prevent Frozen Pipes: Maintain a steady thermostat temperature, leave heating on low if you're away, and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Clear Pathways Safely: If conditions allow, remove snow from pathways and steps to prevent slips. Use grit or sand for better traction and avoid using hot water, which can refreeze and worsen the situation.

Stay Connected: Keep your phone charged and have a backup power source available.

Prepare Your Vehicle: If driving, ensure your car is winter-ready with sufficient antifreeze and a full tank of fuel.

Optimise Home Heating: Avoid blocking vents or radiators with furniture or curtains to maintain a warm and well-ventilated home.

Report Property Issues: Notify us immediately of any leaks, drafts, or other concerns caused by snow or ice.

Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed about local weather conditions and be ready for sudden changes.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the season while staying safe and comfortable!

Question 2

How do I operate my bedroom door lock?

Accepted Answer

Why are there locks on the bedroom doors?

Bedroom locks are provided for added comfort and privacy, though they are not part of the property’s primary security features.

What should I do if I get locked out of my bedroom?

If you have lost your keys or have locked them in your bedroom, call the office on 0113 274 6642 for assistance. Please note that call-out charges apply for assistance outside office hours (Monday – Friday 9am to 5:30pm, excluding holidays and bank holidays).

To avoid unwanted charges, please see our guide below on how to operate the lock properly.

Avoid forcing or barging the door, as this could lead to costly repairs.

How do I leave my bedroom door unlocked?

To leave unlocked: Twist the thumb turn knob and push the button up to secure the latch bolt in an open position. This allows the door to open and close freely without needing a key from the outside.

To lock securely: Turn the thumb turn knob to release the latch bolt from the inside. This will lock the door, and a key will be needed to open it from the outside.

Preventing Lockouts:

Always check the position of the latch bolt before leaving your room.

If you are unsure about how to operate the lock, please reach out for assistance.

Be aware that a draught could accidentally shut the door, potentially locking you out.

Question 3

Can my partner move in with me?

Accepted Answer

If you are looking to move a partner, friend, or family member, into your home, it is essential that you consult with your landlord before taking any action. If you move someone in without the landlord’s consent, you will likely be breaching the terms of your tenancy agreement.

Whether a landlord can consent to another person moving into a property depends on several factors:

House Share

If you are renting a single room in a house, the property may be a licenced House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO). HMO’s have strict requirements regarding the maximum number of tenants. This may limit your ability to move in a partner.

Sole Occupancy

If you are renting an entire house or apartment, there are fewer restrictions on moving in a partner or family member. However, space must be a consideration, as landlords have a duty of care to ensure that properties are safe and not overcrowded.

If a landlord can consent to another person moving into the property, you have two options as to how this person can join the property:

Tenant Permitted Occupier The new person may be added to your tenancy as a tenant, sharing all the rights and responsibilities you have.  Pros:  Equal responsibility for rent and property maintenance. Full legal rights associated with being a tenant. Cons:  The new tenant may need to undergo referencing, which could incur a fee. A new tenancy agreement will need to be signed.  A permitted occupier is authorised to live at the property but is not a tenant and does not have the legal rights of one.  Pros: No referencing process or additional costs. Flexibility to leave at any point during the tenancy. Cons: No shared responsibility for rent. No legal rights associated with being a tenant.

Do be mindful that tenants and permitted occupiers must be able to prove their right to rent in the UK.

If you have any questions or would like to proceed, please contact pickard@pickardproperties.co.uk.

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