Efficiency & Property Investing

In this special Christmas episode, Nick unwraps must-know health and safety tips to help tenants and homeowners enjoy a stress-free holiday. Drawing on real-world experience as a former health and safety officer, the episode dives into everything from keeping real Christmas trees hydrated to testing smoke alarms and using electrical decorations safely. He also offers smart, practical advice on candle safety, kitchen hazards, and securing outdoor décor against winter weather - without dampening the Christmas spirit. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ensure real Christmas trees are watered daily to prevent them from becoming a fire hazard. Keep trees and decorations at least a meter away from heat sources like fireplaces and radiators. Check all electrical decorations for damaged cords and avoid overloading sockets. Use extension cables with surge protection and only use lights rated for outdoor use if decorating outside. Never leave candles unattended and keep them away from flammable items. Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative to achieve a festive atmosphere. Establish a kid-free zone around cooking areas to prevent burns and scalds. Keep a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires in the kitchen and never use water to extinguish a grease fire. Use night lights in guest areas to prevent accidents in unfamiliar spaces. When decorating outdoors, ensure lights are rated for exterior use and secure any large decorations to prevent them from becoming airborne in strong winds. BEST MOMENTS "If you have a real tree, water it daily because a dried tree is a major fire hazard." "Never borrow batteries from a smoke alarm for a new toy. It happens. Don't do it." "Always unplug your Christmas lights before watering a real Christmas tree. It's just a safety tip." "Manage grease fires. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire because all it does is make it spray up." "If you've got outdoor inflatable decorations, make sure you've secured them to stop them becoming airborne." The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training https://is.gd/MSOPIPeterborough Join Kevin McDonnell, the UK's #1 creative finance expert, for the No Money Down Summit https://is.gd/KevinMcDonnellsNMDsummit HOST BIO Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations. He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems. Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick discusses the common issues of condensation and black mold that arise in rental properties during the cold and damp winter months. From ensuring proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms to managing indoor humidity levels and advising on laundry drying methods, Nick offers actionable advice for landlords to share with their tenants. He also highlights the significance of prompt reporting of any damp issues to address potential underlying structural problems. KEY TAKEAWAYS Proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms is essential to prevent condensation and mold. Always use extractor fans and keep doors closed while cooking or showering to contain moisture. Dry laundry outdoors when possible, or use electric airers indoors. Avoid drying clothes on radiators, as this increases humidity levels in the home. Keep a consistent background temperature (ideally around 18 degrees Celsius) to prevent cold surfaces that attract condensation. Avoid using short bursts of heat. Tenants should open windows for 5 to 15 minutes daily to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce humidity levels. Using trickle vents can also help maintain air exchange. Tenants should report any signs of dampness or mold immediately. Early reporting can help identify underlying structural issues and prevent further damage to the property. BEST MOMENTS "The law doesn't allow you to blame the tenant's lifestyle if there's a problem with black mold and condensation." "Condensation is the most common cause of dampness in homes and occurs when warm moist air touches a cold surface like a window or wall." "If you allow your home to cool too much completely, then using short bursts of heat creates a temperature swing, causing instant condensation." "If you haven't installed an extractor fan, why not? You should do. You're helping the tenant, and you're also helping yourself." "Effective, efficient reporting of issues will help maintain your property's condition and promote your relationship with your tenants." The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training https://is.gd/MSOPIPeterborough Join Kevin McDonnell, the UK's #1 creative finance expert, for the No Money Down Summit https://is.gd/KevinMcDonnellsNMDsummit HOST BIO Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations. He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems. Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick delves into the topic of Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation (MVHR) systems, following a previous discussion on Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) systems. Nick explains how MVHR provides a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air while recovering heat from stale air, making it an essential solution for modern, energy-efficient buildings. He outlines the system's operation, benefits, and components, emphasising its role in improving indoor air quality, reducing energy bills, and preventing moisture-related issues. KEY TAKEAWAYS Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation (MVHR) systems provide continuous fresh air while recovering heat from stale air, making them ideal for modern, energy-efficient buildings. They are not typically found in older homes. MVHR systems can recover 60% to over 90% of heat that would otherwise be lost, significantly reducing heating demands and energy bills. This makes them a cost-effective solution over time, despite the initial installation costs. By continuously exchanging air, MVHR systems remove pollutants, moisture, and odours, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. This is particularly beneficial for allergy and asthma sufferers. These systems help manage indoor humidity levels, preventing condensation and mould growth, which protects the building's structure and reduces the need for costly repairs. Proper design and commissioning are crucial for the effectiveness of MVHR systems. A well-designed system ensures efficient operation, noise reduction, and balanced airflow, making it essential to allocate a budget for these stages during new builds or major renovations. BEST MOMENTS "It's not a solution to rising damp, penetrating damp, etc. But it is something that will help control mould, condensation, etc." "The core of the MVHR system is the heat exchanger. This allows the system to balance ventilation with energy efficiency." "By recovering heat from the extracted air, the system greatly reduces the energy needed to heat the incoming fresh air." "MVHR systems are highly efficient, often recovering 60% to over 90% of the heat that would otherwise be lost through conventional ventilation." "If you get it right at the design stage, you can keep using that design. Get it right first." The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training https://is.gd/MSOPIPeterborough Join Kevin McDonnell, the UK's #1 creative finance expert, for the No Money Down Summit https://is.gd/KevinMcDonnellsNMDsummit HOST BIO Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations. He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems. Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of Nick discusses the benefits of Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) systems, particularly for rental properties facing issues with condensation and mold. Drawing from his recent experience with a whole-house refurbishment, Nick explains how PIV works by introducing fresh, filtered air into a home, creating a positive pressure that helps expel stale, humid air through natural leakage points.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) System: A PIV system introduces fresh filtered air into a property, creating positive pressure that helps expel stale, humid air and pollutants through natural leakage points. Installation and Cost: The installation of a PIV system can be relatively straightforward and adds minimal disruption, with costs around £450 when included in a full rewire. Benefits for Tenants: PIV systems improve indoor air quality by filtering out allergens, dust, and pollutants, which can be particularly beneficial for tenants with allergies or respiratory issues. Energy Efficiency: PIV systems are energy-efficient, with low running costs comparable to a light bulb. They can also contribute positively to a property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. Market Value Enhancement: Installing a PIV system can increase the value of a property and serve as a strong selling point for potential tenants or buyers, as it demonstrates a commitment to providing a healthier living environment. BEST MOMENTS "It's a whole house ventilation system that works by introducing fresh filtered air into a property at a continuous rate." "While it's not a solution for all damp, it is really good for less airtight homes." "It's highly effective at reducing condensation and preventing mold by lowering humidity." "You can't blame their living style when you're looking at these courses; what you're looking for is ways to help them." "This is a way that you can actually mitigate some of this condensation humidity that comes from just people living in a property." The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training https://is.gd/MSOPIPeterborough  Join Kevin McDonnell, the UK's #1 creative finance expert, for the No Money Down Summit https://is.gd/KevinMcDonnellsNMDsummit  HOST BIO Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations. He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems. Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick introduces the complexities of Japanese Knotweed, an invasive plant that poses significant challenges for property investors. He provides a comprehensive overview of its history, characteristics, and the legal implications surrounding its presence on properties. Nick discusses the risks associated with Japanese Knotweed, including its impact on property value, mortgage lending, and potential legal liabilities. He emphasises the importance of professional intervention for effective management and eradication, highlighting the necessity of an insurance-backed treatment plan. KEY TAKEAWAYS Japanese knotweed is an invasive plant introduced to the UK in the 1850s, known for its rapid growth and ability to spread through vegetative reproduction rather than seeds. It can grow up to three meters in a year and is difficult to control due to its extensive underground rhizome network. While it is not illegal to have Japanese knotweed on your property, it is illegal to allow it to spread onto neighbouring land or into the wild. Landowners have a duty of care to prevent its spread and may face civil claims if it causes damage to neighbouring properties. Japanese knotweed can significantly affect the saleability and market value of a property, potentially reducing its value by 5% to 15%. Mortgage lenders may be cautious about lending on properties with active infestations, often requiring a long-term management plan with an insurance-backed guarantee. Effective treatment of Japanese knotweed requires professional intervention. Homeowners should hire accredited companies, such as those certified by the Property Care Association, to manage and eradicate the plant, as DIY methods are often ineffective. Japanese knotweed waste is classified as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. It must be disposed of safely and cannot be placed in regular waste bins. Proper documentation and waste transfer notes are essential to prove compliance with disposal regulations. BEST MOMENTS "It's not illegal to have it on your property, but it is illegal to let it spread off your property onto someone else's property or into the wild." "Even the tiniest fragments of viable material can produce a new plant. That makes it extremely difficult to control and eradicate." "You need to have in place a long-term management company with an insurance back guarantee. Without that, you more than likely won't get a mortgage." "Sales falling through can happen if the discovery of knotweed during a survey causes lenders to withdraw their offer." "Don't be scared of buying a property with Japanese knotweed as long as you've got that treatment plan in place." The UK’s #1 Property Investing Event – MSOPI Training https://is.gd/MSOPIPeterborough Join Kevin McDonnell, the UK's #1 creative finance expert, for the No Money Down Summit https://is.gd/KevinMcDonnellsNMDsummit HOST BIO Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations. He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems. Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/