"What landlords often find in April is that the issue they can see is only part of the bigger picture"
- George Edwards - Timberwise
April is the most expensive month of the year for landlords carrying out property maintenance, as the true impact of the cold snap begins to emerge.
As conditions improve and access to external areas becomes easier, landlords shift their focus from quick fixes to underlying issues that have developed over months of cold and wet weather.
George Edwards, managing director of Timberwise (pictured), said, “What landlords often find in April is that the issue they can see is only part of the bigger picture. A damp patch, a mould problem or a bit of movement in the timber can be the result of moisture getting in over time, and by spring it is usually much easier to see where attention is needed.”
According to data released by Rushbrook & Rathbone, April accounts for 11.5 per cent of annual landlord maintenance spend in 2025, with the average job costing £797, the highest monthly figure of the year.
Here, George outlines where landlords should be focusing first.
Start where the water is getting in
"The priority should be the building’s exterior, where many problems originate," explained George. "Blocked gutters, loose downpipes, slipped tiles, cracks in render and failed seals around windows and doors can all allow water to enter gradually over time. Fixing internal damage without addressing the source will usually lead to repeated issues."
Check for the quieter leaks
"Slower, less visible leaks are often just as damaging. Areas under sinks, around toilets, behind appliances and near pipework should all be checked. These issues can persist for months, gradually affecting timber, skirting and flooring without obvious signs."
Pay attention to timber and ventilation
"Spring is also when the effects of prolonged moisture exposure become clearer. Landlords should inspect timber around windows, skirtings, suspended floors and joist ends, as well as any concealed structural areas."
"Warning signs include sticking windows, soft skirting boards, lifting floors or movement underfoot. Ventilation should not be overlooked. Lingering condensation, ineffective extractor fans or blocked vents can all contribute to long-term moisture problems that extend beyond winter."
Focus on protection before presentation
"Landlords should prioritise work that protects the structure of the property before cosmetic improvements. Rainwater goods, external defects, damp risks, timber condition and ventilation all need attention before cosmetic touch-ups. There is no point repainting a room if moisture is still getting in behind the surface.”
When to bring in an expert
George concludes, "Professional advice should be sought where there are recurring damp patches, visible water ingress, persistent mould, weakened timber or movement within the structure. Early intervention is key."
"Left unchecked, minor issues identified in spring can quickly escalate into far more disruptive and expensive repairs. The landlords who keep costs under control are not the ones who spend the least, but the ones who act before small problems turn into structural ones."
