As landlords we need to balance creating an energy efficient property versus spending money on installing double glazing.
As landlords we need to balance creating an energy efficient property versus spending money on installing double glazing.
All properties lose heat through their windows. But energy-efficient glazing keeps your home warmer and quieter as well as reducing your energy bills. That might mean double or triple glazing, secondary glazing, or just heavier curtains.
A good windows company will be able to advise you on what are the best windows to buy for your property.
We had a property in the North West which had old single glazed units. We kept it this way for many years. Unfortunately the windows ended up very mouldy. They looked unsightly and the property wasnt very energy efficient!
This always caused us problems with our tenants. We eventually had to take the plunge and had the whole property double glazed. This cost a fair bit but we see it as enhancing our investment and we’ll eventually reap the rewards. In the meantime it helps us to keep our tenants in the property and makes it easier if we have to find a new one.
Make sure you use a reputable company and get a few quotes before you order your new windows.
Using a window installer registered with FENSA will help you avoid falling victim to cowboy tradesman.
Fensa also do a great guide on how to spot cowboys and how to avoid them!
REFERENCES
Cowboys will avoid providing details of previous jobs.
CONTRACT
Cowboys will inevitably try to avoid any
written agreements and may suggest that a
contract is not needed.
CHEAP DEALS
Cowboys may try to overwhelm you with
cheap One day only offers to make you
part with cash upfront.
VAT
Cowboys may offer you a VAT free deal for cash.
TIME FRAMES
Cowboys may not agree on time frames or completion dates as ‘things may crop up’ that will change them.
COMPETITION
Cowboys may be underhand and unfairly criticise their competitors.
PREMISES
Cowboys may provide inadequate contact details such as just a mobile number. A reputable company should provide business cards with full details, names, registered business addresses & contact numbers.
START STRAIGHT AWAY
Cowboys generally say they are able to start straight away. Good glazers or builders are
often unable to start straight away as most are in constant demand.
GIVING CONFIDENCE
Cowboys may not understand the Building Regulations or keep themselves up to date
with any changes to the law, building regulations or latest industry developments.
If your installer does not give you the confidence that they are knowledgeable,
then you might be correct
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