As the seasons change, so do building risks. Autumn brings cooler weather, shorter days and the run-up to the festive season — all of which introduce hazards that property managers, landlords and dutyholders should anticipate.
At Safe Track, we often find that the everyday, seasonal issues are the ones most likely to slip through the net. Use this quick review to get ahead — and if you’d like a tailored audit, we can help.
Slips, trips & falls
- Wet leaves, rainwater and darker evenings increase incidents at entrances, steps and pathways.
- Do now: Inspect paving and grates; refresh anti-slip mats; clear leaves; check handrails.
- Lighting: Verify lux levels for car parks, entrances and stairwells; replace failed fittings promptly.
Heating, hot water & ventilation
- As systems come back online, poorly maintained boilers/pipework can present fire or CO risks.
- Do now: Book pre-winter servicing and re-balance hot water systems; review CO alarms and asset records.
- Legionella: Confirm temperatures, flushing regimes and logbook entries are up to date.
Fire safety in communal spaces
- Portable heaters, candles and decorations increase fire load. Poor weather can drive clutter into escape routes.
- Do now: Walk routes for obstructions (prams, bikes, storage); test AOVs and emergency lighting; refresh resident guidance on decorations and heaters.
Electrical safety & demand peaks
- Autumn/winter increases load on fixed wiring and sockets.
- Do now: Look for overloaded multi-ways; schedule PAT where needed; action outstanding EICR items.
Seasonal communications
- Proactive messaging reduces complaints and improves cooperation.
- Do now: Share simple reminders on condensation/mould prevention, safe heating, and fire safety rules.
- Tip: Align messages with known pain points (e.g., drying clothes indoors, bike storage).
Your Autumn Action Plan
✅ Inspect external areas for slip hazards and lighting
✅ Service heating and hot water systems (include CO and legionella checks)
✅ Audit communal fire precautions and escape routes
✅ Review electrical safety and demand hotspots
✅ Send seasonal guidance to tenants and staff, and record actions taken
Autumn is the perfect time to reset before winter. Tackling these risks now helps prevent incidents, protect tenants and demonstrate a proactive compliance culture.
Need a hand?
Safe Track supports property managers and housing providers with seasonal audits, training and compliance reviews — from quick gap checks to portfolio-wide programmes.
👉 Book an Autumn Safety Check with Safe Track: safetrackriskmanagement.com
Or message us on LinkedIn and we’ll set up a short call.
