Offer to pay gas bill over christmas?

bubblegum1985

Im just after some advice.

I am selling my flat and its currently tenanted; I was round there the other day and I noticed a few damp patches in the middle of walls, not near the ceiling or floor and its internal walls not external. The flat next door is empty and I am concerned the heating isn't on enough and thats why the patches of damp are forming.

So I was thinking, I know my tenant is away for at least 3 weeks over christmas and I was thinking of offering £40 to have the heating left on low but constant while the flat is empty to hopefully help the damp patches dry out and also stop any pipes freezing should the temperature drop.

Is this a good idea or not? I am thinking its 'cheaper' than having to pay for a plumber to come out should the pipes freeze? I do trust that my tenant will keep the heating on if I offer and do pay not just take the money and leave it off.

If anyone reading can also offer a reason why the damp is appearing other than my guess work I would be grateful!!

Thanks

G_M

Presumably your tenancy agreement requires the tenants to leave the heating on at a minimum level in winter when the property is left unoccupied?

This should reflect your insurer's requirements, and would be a standard clause in any decent TA.

So no need to pay them to do so!

bubblegum1985

I presume so; I go through a reputable LA and so I think it will be in there. Its just that I am wanting it on constantly that I was wondering if I should offer.

G_M

bubblegum1985 wrote: »

I presume so;
don't 'presume'. Check.
I go through a reputable LA
Means nothing
and so I think it will be in there.
'think'?
Its just that I am wanting it on constantly that I was wondering if I should offer.

Read your TA!

Then remind your tenants what they have agreed to.

John_Ma

I dont see why the tenant wouldn't accept the offer if you offer to pay. I mean unless they dont want to help you I cant see any problems. I guess it comes down to the kind of people they are and if they can be trusted.

sandsni

Even if there is a clause in the tenancy agreement regarding keeping the flat heated while unoccupied, I think it would be a decent gesture to your tenants to offer £40 towards the cost and might incentivise them to actually do it rather than skimping on the heating while they're not in residence (which is tempting, especially around Christmas time when funds are particularly precious).


Obviously it's a matter of trust whether they actually do what you ask and don't just pocket the cash, but they would have no excuse later if there are any problems with "damp" patches or frozen pipes. Might be an idea to put something in writing so you have a record of the transaction in case they deny all knowledge later though.

bitsandpieces

Even if there isn't a clause in the contract, it's generally expected for a tenant to take reasonable care of the place they live in. You'd leave the heating on low to avoid the pipes bursting in much the same way as you'd avoid the bath overflowing and damaging the floor, whether or not your contract discusses this.

Giving the tenants some cash to do this may be a nice gesture, still. Also, if you want them to leave the heat on a bit higher to assist with your sale, the case may help to persuade them.

coinxoperated

If I was away for three weeks and my landlord stated I HAD to leave heating on the whole time AND pay for it myself I would be looking at moving house and wouldn't be doing it out of principal. Poor tenants having to live in a damp place!