Keeping rental properties safe should always be a top priority for any landlord. Whether managing a single flat or a group of units, there’s a duty to make sure tenants feel secure where they live. Slips and falls are some of the most common accidents around the home. These accidents usually happen when walking surfaces become wet or worn over time.

Non-slip decking strips offer a simple yet effective way to lower those risks. They provide better grip on problem areas such as steps, outdoor decking, and pathways. By adding them, landlords can avoid tenant complaints and possible injuries, all while showing they’ve thought ahead. With wetter weather setting in around autumn, it makes sense to act now, before things get slick underfoot.

Identifying High-Risk Areas in Rental Properties

Slips can happen just about anywhere, but certain spots always seem to be more troublesome. These are usually areas exposed to weather or frequently used by tenants. High-risk zones can quickly turn into injury hotspots, especially after rain, frost, or when surfaces become dirty or moss-covered.

Here’s where to take a closer look:

- Stairways and steps: These are among the first places to become slippery, especially when worn down or made from smooth materials like timber or polished stone.
- Front entrances: Being the main route in and out, these spots get constant use. They’re usually uncovered, which leaves them open to rain, leaves, and dirt.
- Back patios and garden pathways: Wet footprints, algae, and fallen leaves can make these surfaces a hazard, particularly if tenants like to entertain or hang washing outdoors.
- Shared decking areas: Often found in blocks of flats or multi-unit properties, shared outdoor platforms take a beating from regular footfall and the elements.

A good case in point: a landlord installed a timber deck in a well-finished garden for a terraced rental. It worked fine through summer. But by October, the cold and wet made it slick, algae developed, and one of the tenants had a minor fall just walking to the rubbish bins. That small slip was enough to highlight the need for a better grip on the decking.

Landlords who understand their property’s layout can act fast and avoid problems. Once high-risk areas are spotted, preventing accidents becomes a simple fix.

Choosing the Right Non-Slip Decking Strips

Not all non-slip decking strips do the same job. The right product depends on where they’ll be used and how often that area sees activity. Some strips focus more on strength, while others aim for cleaner finishes or faster installation.

When choosing strips, think about:

- Material: Fibreglass strips are sturdy and hold up well year-round. Rubber provides comfort but may wear down quicker. Metal strips are sleek but might not blend into homely spaces.
- Colour: Contrasting colours help tenants see the edge clearly. Something as simple as a yellow or white strip on a brown deck step can stop trips before they happen.
- Size: Measure carefully. Strips that are too short or narrow won’t give full coverage and leave parts exposed.
- Installation method: Screw-down strips tend to last longer outdoors, especially where rain is regular. Adhesive strips are quicker to apply but might lift in damp or cold areas.
- Weather resistance: Check that the chosen strip is designed for long-term outdoor use. Some products can weaken or crack with seasonal changes if they’re not made for it.

Don’t just go by looks. Think about how the space gets used. If kids like to run on the deck, or if it’s where bikes or bins are stored, pick something that’s tougher. It’s about creating a balance between performance, safety, and fit for purpose.

Installation Tips for Landlords

Getting the right product is only part one. The way strips are installed decides how well they work, and how long they hold up. A rushed fix may look fine at first, but it often leads to strips lifting or coming loose, which can end up being more of a risk.

Begin by preparing the surface. Clean off dust, leaves, mud, or algae. If washing is needed, use a mild cleaner, then leave the surface to dry fully. Any leftover grime affects how well the strip stays in place.

Here’s a step-by-step approach to installation:

1. Measure twice before cutting strips. They should run the full width of the step or platform. For fibreglass strips, use a handsaw or angle grinder.
2. Pre-drill holes if using screws. This helps line everything up and avoids splitting the strip.
3. Use suitable decking screws, ideally stainless steel to stop rust.
4. Press down on each strip. Make sure there's no movement when putting weight on it.
5. Avoid adhesives in constantly wet areas. Moisture causes standard stick-on strips to lift or peel. In those cases, secure with screws instead.

Getting this right the first time saves hassle down the road. It often helps to sketch a rough plan before starting, especially if multiple levels or surfaces are involved. Spacing and alignment matter, especially on shared walkways where one out-of-place strip can catch someone off guard.

Maintenance and Regular Checks

After strips are fitted, they need looking after to stay effective. Weather, dirt, and wear all play a role in reducing grip over time. But with a simple routine, it’s easy to keep strips doing their job without major effort or cost.

Try sticking to this maintenance schedule:

- Monthly: Walk over the area and inspect the strips. Look out for any lifting edges, cracked parts, or puddles that linger.
- Every three months: Use warm soapy water and a firm brush to get rid of muck or moss. This stops surfaces underneath from becoming slippery. If power washing, keep the spray low around screw holes so strips don’t lift.
- After big weather events: If there’s been heavy frost, storms, or strong wind, do a quick check for any damage or movement.
- Fixings check: Replace or tighten any loose screws, especially ones showing signs of rust.
- Replace old strips: When the grit surface starts to wear smooth or flakes off, it’s time for a new one. Waiting too long can lead to preventable slips.

Over time, exposed strips will wear out, especially on stairways or busy walkways. Keeping a few spares can make replacements quicker and easier when they’re needed.

To save time, tie in these checks with quarterly property inspections or other maintenance visits. This gives consistency and helps demonstrate responsible management if anything is ever questioned.

Staying a Step Ahead with Simple Upgrades

Slips outside a rental home aren’t just small scares. They can cause real harm and complicate things for both tenants and landlords. Adding non-slip decking strips helps fix accident-prone spots with very little effort, and makes outdoor areas much safer.

From picking the right strip to installing it properly and checking it regularly, landlords can offer that extra peace of mind renters really value. When people feel safe, they're more likely to keep up their end of the agreement, care for the unit, and renew when the lease ends.

Taking smart, practical steps keeps the property in good shape too. Cold, wet months can sneak up fast. A bit of added grip may be the simple change that keeps someone on their feet on a slippery evening. It all adds up to showing tenants their safety matters. And once done, it’s one less thing to worry about all season long.

Make your rental property safer with a quick but effective upgrade. Browse the range of non-slip decking strips from Slips Away to find a durable, easy-to-install option that suits your outdoor spaces. Adding a bit of grip now can help avoid big problems later and help keep everyone on solid footing.