LRPM urges block residents to prioritise five key safety checks this Christmas

Letitia Randell, CEO of LRPM London, said: "December represents a unique set of challenges for block management. We see the same issues year after year – residents unaware their insurance won't cover them if they're away for extended periods, fire risks from Christmas decorations left unattended, and waste management systems overwhelmed by Boxing Day rubbish. Good managing agents should be addressing these issues proactively with residents now."

"These aren't complex issues, but they require proactive management rather than reactive crisis handling. The difference between a good managing agent and an inadequate one often comes down to whether they're thinking ahead about predictable seasonal challenges."

The five key considerations LRPM recommends addressing before the holiday period are:

Christmas tree lights and electrical fire safety

Decorative lighting left running whilst properties are unattended creates significant fire risk. LRPM advises residents to switch off all Christmas lights when leaving their property, particularly during extended absences. Managing agents should communicate fire safety guidance to all residents in December.

Void period insurance compliance

Many building insurance policies stipulate that properties cannot remain unoccupied for more than seven to thirty days, depending on the specific policy. Residents planning Christmas travel should check their policy terms to avoid returning to "nasty surprises" in January when claims are rejected due to void period breaches.

"We've seen cases where residents have suffered burst pipes or other damage over Christmas, only to discover their insurer won't pay out because they were away for longer than their policy allowed," explained Randell. "A quick check of policy documents before booking that extended holiday can save enormous headaches."

Bin overflow and fire risk management

The festive period generates exceptional waste volumes, with Boxing Day typically producing the year's highest household waste levels. Combined with reduced collection schedules between Christmas and New Year, this creates two risks: overflowing bins become fire and arson hazards, particularly when filled with combustible packaging waste from Christmas presents.

Residents will also be expected to front the cost of removal of non-collectable waste dumped in communal areas through increased service charge bills.

Managing agents should ensure additional waste capacity is arranged and communicate collection schedules clearly to residents before the holiday period.

Grit bins and winter safety

With winter weather conditions potentially deteriorating over the holiday period, when maintenance staff may be operating on reduced schedules, managing agents must ensure grit bins across their properties are fully stocked. This basic precaution is the managing agent's responsibility and can prevent slips, falls and potential liability claims.

2026 service charge budget planning

December is the critical month when competent managing agents should be discussing proposed 2026 budgets with residents and building committees. This forward planning ensures residents understand upcoming service charge requirements and allows proper financial preparation for the new year.

LRPM's recommendations come as the firm continues its expansion across London's residential property sector, having recently opened a new Camden office and launched a specialist Right to Manage service that has helped more than 700 homes across London and East Anglia take control of their building management.

The firm's ethical approach to property management, including maintaining complete fee transparency, has driven 30% growth over the past year, with a 95% client retention rate across its portfolio of more than 2,000 units.

For more information, visit: www.LRPM.co.uk