Sam Douglas, for iConn Property Management writes:

These tips listed in our welcome packs may come in useful for some of our tenants:

Washing Machines

Please clean your filter regularly on your washing machine, normally located on the front at the bottom of the machine.  This is often the cause for the washing machine to stop working or stop draining properly.  Also ensure you do not over fill the powder drawer.

Dryer

Please clean the filter regularly as failure to do so is likely to cause the tumble dryer to overheat and stop working.

If any other electrical appliances fail to function correctly, please call the office and we will organise for the appliance to be repaired, replaced or removed.

Light Bulbs and Shades

It is the responsibility of the tenants to replace light bulbs when they have blown and to replace any damaged shades when they leave.

Pictures and posters.

We appreciate that tenants may wish to put pictures and posters up, however please be aware that using substances like blu tac may cause damage to the wall covering or paint work. You are responsible for any repairs required when you leave.

Windows and Curtains

Please ensure that all windows are closed when the property is unattended.  You can be sure that insurance companies will not pay out if windows are left open and you have been broken into when you have left the property unsecure.

Heat sensors and smoke detectors.

They are not to be removed, disconnected or the batteries taken out.  If the batteries fail, you are responsible for replacing them.  Please note that disconnecting or removing the batteries long term will invalidate any insurance taken out by yourselves or the landlord.

Pest Control

Any issue with infestation i.e. wasp nests, bees nest, mice etc are the responsibility of the tenant. The issue should be reported directly to the environmental department at Canterbury City Council.  Please do not encourage any unwanted pets by leaving rubbish inside or outside the property long term.  It can be costly for a contractor to be called out to sort such issues and on top of that, there are obvious health implications to consider.  You will be charged if we have to send out a contractor.

Guttering & Drains

All guttering and drain maintenance for the property is again the responsibility of the tenants as laid out in the tenancy agreement.

Drains block very easily, most common causes are food and oil being put down the kitchen sink and hair from showers and baths.  Last year we had numerous reports of blocked drains; all reports were caused by tenants and in all cases the tenants had to pay the bill as they were responsible for causing the problem.

Smoking.

Tenants are reminded that there is to be NO SMOKING inside of the property

Property Inspections

If iConn manages the property, your Landlord has instructed us to carry out periodic property inspections. The inspections are to ensure that the property is being looked after by yourself and for any maintenance repairs that may be required as part of your Landlord’s obligations. We will write to you in advance notifying you of any inspections that may be due, giving you the opportunity to be present whilst the inspection is being carried.