Category: Blogs

Protect your pipes from the cold

When water freezes, it expands, and that pressure is what splits a pipe. The ones most at risk are in cold, unheated spaces: the loft, the garage, and any that run along an outside wall.

Find your stopcock and check you can turn it. This valve shuts off the water supply to your home, usually under the kitchen sink or near where the mains pipe enters. If a pipe freezes or bursts, knowing where it is means you can stop the water quickly and limit the damage.

On very cold days, leave your heating ticking over on a low setting rather than switching it off completely. A little background warmth keeps the temperature up around your pipes and lowers the risk of a freeze. If you have an outside tap, turn it off at the indoor isolation valve and let it drain before the first hard frost.

Keep rainwater flowing away

Autumn brings falling leaves as well as heavier rain, and together they quickly block gutters and drains. When rainwater can’t drain away, it overflows, and that water ends up soaking into walls and pooling around the house.

Clear leaves and debris from the gullies and drain covers you can reach safely at ground level. If a gutter is overflowing, or a drain is blocked and you can’t shift it yourself, report it to us, and we’ll get it sorted.

Watch for damp and condensation

As the heating goes back on and windows stay shut, condensation builds up more easily. Open a window for a while each day, use extractor fans when you cook or shower, and keep a little air moving through the house.

Take a minute now and then to check under sinks, around the boiler and beneath radiators for any sign of damp, a leak or a water mark. A problem is far easier to sort the sooner you find it, and much easier to catch before winter sets in.

If something is not right

Report it to us, and we will get it booked in. The tenant portal is the quickest way, and it lets you track the repair from start to finish. Alternatively, you can call our office at 01463 251133.

Start with windows and sunlight. Direct sunlight can quickly heat rooms, especially those facing the sun for long periods. Closing curtains or blinds during peak heat helps reduce the amount of warmth entering your home. If you have lighter window coverings, these may help reflect some sunlight while still allowing brightness into the room.

Ventilation should be planned based on the outdoor temperature. Opening windows when the air is cooler, usually early in the morning or later in the evening, can help refresh the home. During the hottest part of the day, keeping windows closed may prevent warm air from entering.

Outdoor areas also need protection. Garden furniture, cushions, and plastic items can fade, crack, or become brittle in strong sunlight. Store items in shade or cover them when not in use. Wooden furniture may benefit from suitable treatment, while metal furniture should be checked for heat-retaining surfaces before use.

Plants and lawns may need extra care during dry spells. Watering early in the morning or late in the evening reduces evaporation and helps plants absorb moisture more effectively. Avoid overwatering and follow any local guidance if water restrictions are in place.

Inside, be mindful of appliances. Fridges and freezers often work harder in hot weather, so avoid overfilling them and keep doors closed as much as possible. Make sure vents are not blocked and that appliances have space around them where required.

Heat can also highlight maintenance issues. Windows that do not open, damaged blinds, poor seals, or ventilation problems can make it harder to manage indoor temperatures.

Flooring and soft furnishings can also be affected by prolonged exposure to strong sunlight. Rugs, curtains, and upholstery may fade if exposed for long periods, so moving items slightly or closing blinds during the brightest hours can help. These small protective steps can preserve the look and condition of your home and improve comfort.

If you notice maintenance concerns that affect ventilation, safety, or the condition of your home, please report them through the tenant portal. For urgent out-of-hours issues, contact 01463 251133.

Start with doors and windows. Check that all locks work properly and that every window, including smaller or less obvious ones, is fully closed before you leave. Patio doors, back doors, sheds, garages, and communal entrances should also be checked where relevant. If any locks, handles, or frames are damaged, report them before your trip if possible.

Avoid making it obvious that your home is empty. Be careful about posting holiday plans or live updates on social media, especially if your profiles are public. Waiting until you return to share photos can be a safer option.

If you trust a neighbour, friend, or family member nearby, consider asking them to keep an eye on your home. They may be able to collect visible post, move bins, or alert you if they notice anything unusual. A home that looks lived in is less likely to attract attention.

Think about what is visible from outside. Keep valuables such as laptops, keys, wallets, and jewellery away from windows. Outdoor tools, ladders, and garden furniture should be stored securely, as these can sometimes be used to gain access.

Before leaving, switch off non-essential appliances at the wall, where safe to do so. This can reduce energy use and lower the risk of electrical issues. Make sure fridges and freezers remain on and avoid leaving food that may spoil.

Water is also worth considering. Check taps are fully off and look for any existing drips or leaks before you go. Small leaks can cause damage if left unattended for several days.

It is also worth thinking about emergencies while you are away. Make sure someone you trust knows how to contact you and consider leaving a spare key with them if appropriate. Do not hide keys outside the property, as common hiding places are often easy to find.

If you notice problems with locks, doors, windows, external lighting, or anything else that could affect security, please report it through the tenant portal. For urgent out-of-hours issues, contact 01463 251133.

Humidity simply means the amount of moisture in the air. Everyday activities add to it, including cooking, showering, bathing, boiling kettles, drying clothes indoors, and using some appliances. When moist air meets a cooler surface, it can turn into water droplets. This is condensation, commonly seen on windows, tiles, mirrors, and external walls.

The most effective way to manage condensation is to reduce moisture at the source. When cooking, use pan lids where possible and switch on extractor fans if provided. In bathrooms, keep the door closed during showers or baths and ventilate the room afterwards. Wiping down wet surfaces can also help reduce lingering moisture.

Air circulation matters. Opening windows for short periods each day allows humid air to escape and fresh air to enter. This can be especially useful first thing in the morning, when condensation may have built up overnight. Keeping trickle vents open, where fitted, can also support background ventilation.

Try not to block airflow. Furniture placed tightly against external walls can trap cool, damp air behind it, so leaving a small gap can help. Wardrobes and cupboards should not be overfilled, as packed spaces make it harder for air to move.

Drying clothes indoors can significantly increase indoor humidity. If outdoor drying is not possible, choose a well-ventilated room and avoid placing wet laundry directly on radiators, as this can quickly release moisture into the air.

Spring is a good time to reset household habits before warmer weather arrives. Regularly checking windows, bathrooms, and bedrooms helps you identify where moisture tends to gather most often. Once you know the problem areas, it becomes easier to manage them through ventilation, cleaning, and small daily routines that prevent humidity from becoming a bigger issue.

It is normal to see some condensation from time to time, but repeated heavy condensation, black mould, peeling paint, or damp patches may point to a wider issue.

If you notice persistent condensation, mould, faulty extractor fans, windows that will not open properly, or signs of damp, please report this through the tenant portal. For urgent out-of-hours issues, contact 01463 251133.

Start by controlling sunlight. Rooms can heat up quickly when direct sunlight comes through windows, especially in the middle of the day. Keeping curtains or blinds closed on sunny windows can help reduce heat build-up. Lighter curtains can still let in daylight while limiting some of the warmth.

Ventilation works best when used strategically. Open windows early in the morning and later in the evening when the air outside is cooler. During the hottest part of the day, closing windows can sometimes keep warm air out, particularly if the inside of your home is cooler than outside.

Fans can help the air feel fresher, especially in bedrooms or living rooms. Placing a fan near an open window in the evening may help draw in cooler air. Make sure cables are positioned safely and that fans are switched off when not needed.

Think about the heat created inside the home. Ovens, hobs, tumble dryers, and some electronics all add warmth. On very hot days, consider lighter meals, using appliances earlier or later in the day, and switching off appliances when not in use.

Soft furnishings can also affect how warm a room feels. Heavy throws, thick bedding, and dark covers may retain heat, so swapping to lighter fabrics can make rooms more comfortable. In bedrooms, keeping bedding simple and breathable can help improve sleep.

If you have outdoor space, shade can help reduce heat around the home. Parasols, garden furniture placement, or keeping balcony doors shaded may make outdoor areas more usable while reducing direct heat near windows.

It is also important to stay hydrated and check on others in the household, particularly children, older people, or anyone more vulnerable to heat.

If you notice issues affecting your ability to ventilate your home, such as windows that won’t open or damaged seals, please report them through the tenant portal. For urgent out-of-hours issues, contact 01463 251133.

One of the best ways to prevent pests is to limit easy access. Small gaps around doors, windows, vents, pipework, and external walls can provide entry points for insects or rodents. Check visible areas and make sure windows and doors close properly. If you notice damage, gaps, or broken seals that appear to be part of the property, these should be reported.

Food storage is also important. Keep dry goods, such as cereal, pasta, flour, and pet food, in sealed containers when possible. Wipe down kitchen surfaces after preparing food, sweep up crumbs, and avoid leaving dirty dishes out overnight. Bins should be emptied regularly and kept closed, particularly during warmer weather when smells can build up more quickly.

Outdoor spaces can affect pest activity indoors. Keep garden waste, food waste, and rubbish away from doors and windows where possible. If you have a garden, avoid leaving fallen fruit, pet food, or standing water outside, as these can attract unwanted visitors.

It is helpful to know the warning signs. Droppings, gnaw marks, unusual smells, scratching noises, damaged packaging, or repeated sightings of insects in the same area can all suggest a problem. Acting early often makes pests easier to manage.

Seasonal habits can make a difference, too. During warmer weather, doors and windows may be open more often, so using screens where available and closing them when not needed can help. Try to deal with spills quickly, rinse food packaging before recycling, and avoid allowing clutter to build up in storage areas where pests may settle.

For minor issues, household cleaning, sealed storage, and shop-bought pest control products may be enough. However, avoid using anything that could be unsafe for children, pets, or other residents, and always follow product instructions carefully.

If the issue persists, spreads, or appears to be linked to a maintenance problem, such as holes, gaps, broken vents, or damaged doors, please report it through the tenant portal. For urgent out-of-hours issues, contact 01463 251133.

The first step is choosing the right location. Always place your BBQ on a flat, stable surface where it cannot easily tip over. Keep it well away from buildings, fences, sheds, trees, garden furniture, and anything else that could catch fire. Heat and sparks can travel farther than expected, especially with a breeze.

Never use a BBQ indoors, in a garage, or in any enclosed or poorly ventilated space. Barbecues produce carbon monoxide, which is invisible and odourless but can be extremely dangerous. Even after cooking has finished, hot coals can continue to give off fumes, so they should always remain outside until fully cold.

When lighting your BBQ, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid using too much lighter fluid. Sudden flare-ups can cause burns and make the BBQ difficult to control. If using charcoal, wait until the flames have died down and the coals are covered with grey ash before you begin cooking.

Supervision is essential. Do not leave a lit BBQ unattended and keep children and pets at a safe distance. Use long-handled tools where possible, avoid loose clothing near flames, and keep a bucket of water, sand, or a hose nearby in case you need to act quickly.

If you live in a flat or have limited outdoor space, check that the area is suitable before using a BBQ. Balconies, shared entrances, and spaces close to other homes may not be appropriate, even if the BBQ is small. Smoke can also affect neighbours, so be considerate when choosing where and when to cook.

Food safety matters too. Keep raw and cooked foods separate, wash hands and utensils regularly, and make sure meat is cooked thoroughly before serving.

After use, allow ashes and coals to cool completely before disposing of them safely. Never place hot ashes in a bin, as they can reignite even when they appear to be out.

Condensation is one of the most common causes of mould in homes. It happens when warm, moist air meets cooler surfaces, such as windows, external walls, or tiles. Cooking, showering, drying clothes indoors, and even breathing all add moisture to the air, so managing ventilation is important.

A good first step is to open windows regularly, even for short periods. Allowing fresh air to circulate helps remove excess moisture and keeps indoor air moving. In bathrooms and kitchens, use extractor fans where provided, and keep doors closed while cooking or showering to prevent steam from spreading through the rest of the home.

Try to keep furniture slightly away from external walls, especially in bedrooms and living rooms. Air needs space to circulate, and furniture pushed tightly against cold walls can create areas where moisture becomes trapped. Wardrobes and cupboards should also be checked from time to time, particularly if they sit against an outside wall.

If you need to dry clothes indoors, try to do so in a well-ventilated room and avoid placing wet laundry directly on radiators. Using a clothes airer near an open window, where practical, can help reduce moisture build-up.

Small patches of mould can often be cleaned using suitable household products, but it is important to address the cause as well as the visible marks. Wiping away mould without improving ventilation or reducing moisture may mean it returns.

Spring cleaning can also help reduce the risk of mould. Dust and clutter can limit airflow, particularly around windowsills, skirting boards, and corners. Cleaning these areas and keeping rooms well-ventilated makes it harder for moisture to settle.

Look out for warning signs such as persistent musty smells, damp patches, peeling paint, or mould spreading across walls or ceilings. These may point to an issue that needs further attention.

If damp or mould keeps returning, covers a larger area, or appears to be linked to leaks, poor seals, or water ingress, please report it through the tenant portal so it can be assessed. For urgent out-of-hours issues, contact 01463 251133.

Start with the areas most affected by winter weather. Check windows and doors to ensure they close properly and that seals appear intact. Look for draughts, sticking handles, loose hinges, or gaps around frames. These can affect warmth and energy efficiency and may also allow moisture to enter during wet weather.

It is also worth checking walls, ceilings, and corners of rooms for any signs of staining, peeling paint, or new marks that could suggest water ingress or damp. Pay particular attention to areas around windows, external walls, and bathrooms, where changes can sometimes appear after winter.

Inside the home, test any alarms, and replace batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors if needed. These checks only take a few minutes but are important for household safety. You can also use the season change as a reminder to review emergency contacts and make sure everyone in the household knows what to do if an issue arises.

In kitchens and bathrooms, look under sinks and around appliances for leaks, drips, or signs of corrosion. Small plumbing issues can sometimes go unnoticed, but catching them early helps prevent damage to cupboards, flooring, or walls.

If you have outdoor areas, check paths, steps, fencing, gates, and external lighting. Winter weather can loosen fixtures or make surfaces uneven, creating trip hazards.

Finally, think about ventilation. As the weather improves, opening windows regularly can help fresh air circulate and reduce moisture build-up.

It can help to make a short checklist and work through one room at a time, rather than trying to do everything at once. This makes it easier to spot changes you might otherwise miss, such as a loose handle, a new mark on a wall, or a window that’s become harder to open. Keeping on top of small checks helps your home stay in good condition as the seasons change.

If you spot anything that may need repairing, such as damaged seals, leaks, faulty fixtures, or signs of damp, please report it through the tenant portal. For urgent out-of-hours issues, contact us on 01463 251133.

Lithium batteries store a lot of energy in a small space. If a battery overheats or becomes damaged, it can fail and ignite very quickly. While incidents are uncommon, fires involving rechargeable devices most often start while a battery is charging or if the device has been damaged or used with the wrong charger.

With this in mind, HHA has shared some simple advice that can help reduce the risk and help keep your home safe.

Charging devices safely

One of the most important things to remember is to avoid leaving devices charging unattended. If you use a rechargeable vape, do not leave it charging overnight or while you are out of the house. If something goes wrong during charging, it’s much safer if someone is around to notice.

It’s also important to use the correct charging equipment. Always use the charger that came with your device, as using incorrect chargers or cheap replacement cables can cause the battery to overheat. Charging on a flat, stable and non-flammable surface is also recommended, such as a table or worktop. Sofas, beds and carpets can trap heat and increase the risk of a problem developing.

Once a device is fully charged, unplug it rather than leaving it connected for long periods of time. It’s also best to avoid charging or storing devices in extreme temperatures. For example, leaving a vape on a car dashboard in direct sunlight can expose the battery to temperatures of 60–70°C, which may cause it to fail.

Using vape devices safely

Looking after the device itself is just as important. Only buy vape devices from reputable retailers and check they display UKCA or CE safety marks. Batteries should never be crushed, punctured or exposed to water, and loose batteries should not be carried in pockets or bags alongside metal objects such as keys or coins, as this can cause a short circuit.

If a device ever becomes unusually hot, begins leaking, or the battery appears swollen or damaged, it should be stopped from use immediately and disposed of safely. Devices should never be tampered with, modified or mixed with components from other products.

Disposing of vapes safely

Vapes and their batteries should never be put in household rubbish or recycling bins. Lithium batteries can ignite when crushed in waste trucks or sorting facilities.

Instead, used vapes should be returned to the retailer if they offer a take-back scheme, or taken to your local household waste recycling centre, where there are dedicated bins for small electrical items.

What to do in an emergency

It’s important to know what to do if a device or battery catches fire. If this happens, do not attempt to tackle the fire yourself. Leave the property immediately, get to a safe distance and call 999.

Rechargeable devices are now part of everyday life, and when used safely, there’s no reason for concern. Taking a few simple precautions when charging and using devices can make a big difference in helping to keep your home, your belongings and the people around you safe.

You can find the full document on safely charging devices here: Vape Fire Safety

This year marks 20 years since Highland Housing Alliance was established, and in that time, the housing landscape has changed significantly. In our early years, the challenges centred around securing land and planning. Now, the challenges have evolved: zoned land is harder to come by, the planning process is more complex, and higher building standards – while important – add both cost and time. Current economic uncertainty also makes securing funding more difficult than ever.

The Highlands are in the grip of a housing challenge. There is significant demand, with The Highland Council estimating that £2.8 billion is needed to deliver the required 24,000 homes in the area. The cost of private rentals has also increased, alongside a decrease in the supply of rental properties.

Multiple factors have affected the availability of housing: a report by The Highland Council showed that there has been a surge in over-75s living in the area, indicating that the Highlands are being increasingly seen as a retirement destination rather than a place that can sustain its working-age residents.

Younger people in the Highlands are struggling to take the first steps on the housing ladder in an environment where housing is both prohibitively expensive and in short supply, which, in turn, means a growing number of people who live and work in the Highlands are being priced out.

The outlook in the Highlands is not wholly negative, however. Significant investment is due to come in the form of the Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, announced in January 2023, which aims to boost economic development, renewable energy transition, and regional innovation in the Highlands through significant tax, customs and infrastructure incentives. The Freeport will see the creation of more than 11,000 jobs locally, many of whom will be specialist workers. The success of the Freeport could hang on the availability of homes for these workers.

HHA focuses on providing mid-market rental (MMR) homes, which are typically more affordable than private rents, but sit above social housing prices. For many people, particularly those who are in work but are not yet in a position to buy, MMR provides a vital solution, offering them a high-quality home in a location they want to be, and with the freedom to stay long term, or to move into home ownership should the opportunity arise.

HHA’s commitment to delivering high-quality homes to the people and places that need them has only become more important in the face of the area’s housing challenges. In the last 20 years, we have taken handover of over 500 high-quality homes across the Highlands, ensuring people are able to live and work in the communities they care about.

Our partnerships with organisations including the Scottish Government, Tulloch Homes and The Highland Council have delivered developments in communities across the Highlands, including at Inverness, Conon Bridge, Aviemore, and Kirkhill. HHA also has more than 100 MMR homes currently in the pipeline.

Many of these developments have incentives in place to ensure that people who are vitally important to the communities they serve – including teachers, social care staff, blue light workers and local authority employees – are prioritised in their applications, to ensure these essential workers can continue living in the places they are needed the most in the face of a housing challenge that may otherwise see them priced out or unable to secure quality housing.

In the last 20 years, the housing landscape has changed significantly, but HHA’s purpose remains the same. The challenges we face in the Highlands cannot be solved overnight, but by continuing to work with our partners to deliver high-quality homes in the communities that need them, HHA will continue to play its part in addressing the issues faced by communities across the region.