Published by Roger Goodwin, Managing Director, Into Property Investing

As HMO landlords, we're constantly balancing tenant satisfaction, property maintenance, and regulatory compliance. One investment that ticks all these boxes is a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) systems. After installing these in several of our properties across Preston, Bolton, and Warrington, here's why they've become an essential part of our HMO strategy.

The HMO Ventilation Challenge

Managing seven HMOs has taught us that ventilation isn't just about comfort it's about protecting your investment. Multiple tenants mean:

·        Higher moisture levels from cooking, showering, and daily living

·        Clothes drying indoors, a major moisture contributor

·        Increased risk of condensation and mold

·        More stringent regulatory requirements

·        Potential for costly remedial works if problems develop

The Hidden Culprit: Indoor Clothes Drying

Here's something many landlords overlook: tenants drying clothes indoors. In HMOs, this is inevitable not everyone has access to outdoor space or can afford tumble dryers.

The Problem:

·        Each load of washing releases 2-3 litres of moisture into the air

·        Multiple tenants = multiple loads per week

·        Radiator drying creates perfect conditions for mold growth

·        Condensation on windows, walls, and in corners

The PIV Solution:

PIV systems continuously remove this moisture laden air, replacing it with fresh, filtered air from outside. We've seen dramatic reductions in mold issues since installation particularly in bedrooms where tenants dry clothes on radiators.

Why PIV Systems Work for HMOs

Regulatory Compliance Made Simple

HMO licensing requires adequate ventilation, and PIV systems help meet these standards effortlessly. Unlike piecemeal extraction fans, a single PIV unit addresses whole property air quality.

Moisture Control That Actually Works

We've seen the difference firsthand. Properties with PIV systems have significantly fewer condensation issues, protecting both our investment and tenant wellbeing. The constant air circulation prevents moisture from settling and creating mold hotspots.

The Cost-Effective Choice: Axia and Nuaire

After researching options, we've found Axia and Nuaire systems offer the best value:

Running Costs:

·        Just £20-40 per year in electricity

·        Minimal maintenance simple filter changes

·        No complex servicing requirements

Installation Benefits:

·        Single loft-mounted unit covers the entire property

·        Retrofit friendly crucial for existing portfolios like ours

·        Minimal tenant disruption during installation

Real World ROI for Property Investors

The numbers speak for themselves:

Cost Savings:

·        Prevents £1,000s in damp treatment costs

·        Eliminates mold remediation expenses

·        Reduces redecoration frequency

·        Fewer insurance claims for moisture damage

·        Lower void periods from air quality complaints

Tenant Satisfaction:

·        No more mold complaints from clothes drying

·        Improved air quality = better retention rates

·        Quiet operation = fewer complaints

·        Professional standard that justifies premium rents

The Retrofit Advantage

Here's the game changer: PIV systems retrofit easily. For our existing seven property portfolio, this means:

·        No major structural work required

·        Installation during void periods or room turnovers

·        Typically completed in a single day

·        Immediate impact on air quality and moisture control

We've found the best time to install is during our regular room refresh cycles like when we're doing painting and decoration work.

Strategic Implementation

Timing Your Installations:

·        During planned maintenance windows

·        Between tenancies to minimize disruption

·        As part of broader property improvements

·        Before winter months when clothes drying indoors peaks

Budget Planning:

Installation costs typically range £800-1,500 per property a fraction of what you'd spend on major damp remediation or mold treatment.

The Bottom Line

With most property business, PIV systems are a "fit and forget" solution that works 24/7. They're particularly valuable for landlords who manage lettings in-house, as they significantly reduce maintenance calls related to condensation, mold, and air quality especially those frustrating complaints about damp from clothes drying.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Regulatory compliance made simple

✓ Eliminates mold from indoor clothes drying

✓ Protects your property investment

✓ Improves tenant satisfaction and retention

✓ Cost-effective with excellent ROI

✓ Easy retrofit installation

✓ Minimal ongoing maintenance

Ready to Improve Your HMO Portfolio?

Ventilation might not be the most exciting aspect of property investment, but it's one of the most important. PIV systems have become an essential part of our property management strategy, and the results speak for themselves particularly in tackling the inevitable moisture from tenants drying clothes indoors.

Want to learn more about maximising your HMO investments? Book a free 15-minute consultation or join our newsletter for more practical property insights.