Autumn property checks: Preventative measures that saves you money

As the cooler months approach here in Perth, now is the time to get ahead of winter and protect your property from costly damage.

Autumn is the ideal season for preventative maintenance. A few simple checks now can help avoid emergency repairs, water damage and unexpected expenses once heavy rain and storms arrive.

Why Autumn checks matter

Winter in WA often brings prolonged rain, strong winds and increased moisture, all of which can expose underlying issues in a property.

Small maintenance items left unchecked can quickly escalate into major problems, particularly when it comes to water ingress, electrical faults and drainage issues.

Taking a proactive approach now helps:

• Reduce long-term repair costs
• Protect the condition of your investment
• Minimise disruption for tenants
• Ensure safety and compliance

Key Autumn maintenance checks

Roof & Gutter inspections

One of the most common causes of internal water damage is blocked gutters and poorly maintained roofing.

We recommend:

• Cleaning gutters at least annually (ideally every 6 months if the property is near trees)
• Checking downpipes are clear and flowing correctly
• Inspecting for cracked tiles, damaged flashing or worn seals

Even minor roof issues such as split silicone seals or blocked drainage, can allow water to enter and cause mould, ceiling damage and costly repairs.

Electrical Safety: RCD & Smoke Alarm checks

Now is a good time to:

• Test RCD safety switches to ensure they are functioning correctly
• Check smoke alarms are compliant and operational
• Address any signs of water ingress near power points or wiring

Faulty or ageing electrical components can fail unexpectedly and often at the worst possible time.

Winter Sprinkler Switch-off

Why it matters:

• Saves billions of litres of water each year
• Gardens require less watering due to rainfall and lower evaporation
• Helps avoid fines (up to $100 for non-compliance)

Tenants should ensure irrigation systems are turned off, while owners should confirm systems are functioning correctly and set appropriately.

Book a professional roof inspection

A professional inspection can identify issues that aren’t always visible from the ground such as cracked tiles, deteriorated flashing or hidden leaks.

Preventative inspections are a small upfront cost compared to the potential expense of internal water damage, mould remediation or structural repairs.

If you’d like assistance arranging a roof inspection, your property manager can help coordinate this for you.

A proactive approach pays off

Property maintenance isn’t just about fixing problems, it’s about preventing them.

By staying on top of these key checks each autumn, property owners can protect their investment, while tenants can enjoy a safer, more comfortable home throughout winter.

If you’d like help organising any of the above maintenance items or want tailored advice for your property, get in touch with our Property Management team today. We’re here to help you stay one step ahead of winter!