A little preparation now can save you from costly repairs later.
Here’s your quick guide to giving your home a winter health check.
Protect your pipes
Freezing weather can cause pipes to burst, leading to flooding and expensive damage.
- Locate your stopcock so you can turn off the water quickly in an emergency.
- Check insulation on exposed pipes in unheated areas such as lofts, garages, and outbuildings. If needed, add waterproof foam lagging for extra protection.
Test your heating
Run your heating system at least once a month—even in summer. This keeps everything working smoothly and prevents grit from building up in the boiler pump.
Secure walls, fences, and hedges
Storm damage to gates and fences is not covered by insurance. Inspect them now and reinforce any weak spots before winter winds arrive, so these items can not cause damage to your property in storm conditions.
Inspect your roof
Loose tiles can lead to leaks and structural damage. Check from the ground using binoculars or hire a professional—never risk climbing ladders yourself.
Clear gutters and drains
Leaves and debris can block gutters, causing water to overflow and seep into your walls. Make sure everything is clear before heavy rain hits.
Heading away this winter?
Even the best insulation won’t stop exterior pipes from freezing during prolonged cold spells.
Before you leave:
- Isolate and drain external pipework, outdoor taps, and exposed plumbing.
- Leave taps open to let any remaining water drain out.
When you return and temperatures improve, simply restore the water supply.
A little preparation means peace of mind all winter long. Stay warm, stay safe!