Autumn Jobs for Managing Agents: Sweeping Up Summer and Getting Ahead of Winter

 1. Leaf Clearance: The Slippery Truth

Fallen leaves may look picturesque, but they’re also a slip hazard and a drain-blocking menace.

• Schedule regular clearance of paths, car parks, and communal areas.

• Check gullies and drains for blockages—especially near downpipes and low-lying areas.

• Communicate with residents about keeping private gardens tidy to avoid communal build-up.

2. Gutter & Roofline Checks: Prevention Beats Panic

Autumn is the ideal time to inspect gutters, downpipes, and rooflines before winter rain tests them to their limits.

• Clear debris from gutters and check for cracks or sagging.

• Inspect roof tiles for damage or displacement.

• Book minor repairs now—before contractors get booked solid in November.

3. Tree & Hedge Maintenance: Trim Before the Wind Hits

Overgrown trees and hedges can become liabilities in high winds. Autumn pruning helps reduce risk and keeps paths clear.

• Check for overhanging branches near buildings, paths, and parking bays.

• Review tree surveys and schedule any necessary works.

• Ensure visibility for signage, lighting, and CCTV.

4. Lighting & Safety Checks: Dark Nights Are Coming

With daylight hours shrinking, estate lighting becomes critical for safety and security.

• Test all communal lighting—especially in stairwells, car parks, and pathways.

• Replace bulbs proactively and check timers or sensors.

• Review emergency lighting systems for compliance and reliability.

5. Fire Safety & Access: Clear the Way

Autumn is a great time to remind residents about communal area safety before winter coats and Christmas deliveries start piling up.

• Reinforce no-storage policies in hallways and stairwells.

• Check fire doors and signage for visibility and function.

• Ensure access routes are clear for emergency services.

6. Contractor Coordination: Beat the Winter Rush

Autumn is your last chance to get ahead of the seasonal surge in contractor demand.

• Confirm winter readiness with gritting and snow clearance providers.

• Schedule servicing for boilers, pumps, and access systems.

• Review contracts to ensure coverage includes weekends and emergencies.

7. Resident Communication: Set the Tone Early

A well-informed resident is a cooperative resident. Use autumn to set expectations and share useful tips.

• Send a seasonal bulletin with key reminders and contact info.

• Share winter prep guides for individual homes and communal areas.

• Invite feedback on any recurring issues before they become winter complaints.

In Summary: Autumn Is Your Opportunity

Autumn isn’t just a transitional season: it’s a strategic one. With a bit of foresight and a solid checklist, managing agents can turn falling leaves into rising confidence.

At Placekeeper, we believe that good management is seasonal, and autumn is the season of smart preparation.

Trevor Adey, Director, Placekeeper Management