Winter Weather – Take Precautions to Protect Your Home Now
Now is a good time to review whether your home maintenance is set to withstand high winds, heavy rain and potential frost and snow. By taking precautionary measures now and conducting a check on your property, potential damage caused by harsh weather conditions can be minimised.
In the event of any insurable claim, Insurers’ will also consider the general maintenance of a building to assess whether damage is due an Insured’ event and whether general maintenance issues apply. Reductions or restrictions in Cover may be applied should Insurers’ qualify that pre-Loss, the condition of the property was not adequate.
Guttering and drains
-Do a check to ensure that gutters and drains are in a good state of repair.
-Clear gutters and drains regularly of debris (especially leaves at this time of the year), to prevent blockage and leaks in heavy rain or snowfall.
Garden area
-Ensure that garden furniture and children’s play equipment is secure and cannot be blown around by strong winds. Cover any equipment with heavy duty tarpaulin to protect it during the winter months.
-Make sure that fences and posts are sturdy and secure.
Frost/snow
-Insulate water pipes and water tanks.
-Consider ‘lagging’ external pipes (such as outdoor taps)
-When the temperature drops to freezing and below, keep the heating on low so that warm air can circulate in a property.
-If you are going away or a property is empty consider leaving the loft hatch slightly open to minimise the risk of a frozen water tank.
-Frost can cause damage to mortar and brickwork on your home, garden walls and chimney breast. These areas are exposed to the elements and water can get into porous bricks, may freeze and then damage the face of the brick. Check brickwork, mortar and pointing before winter and get a professional in if necessary to deal with any issues.
Flood
If your property is in a high risk area and has suffered flooding previously; review the following for further advice: http://www.ajcconsultants.ltd.uk/flooding-plan-ahead/
General Tips:
Have your boiler serviced by a professional.
Locate your ‘stopcock’ so that in an emergency you are able to turn it off.
In the event that you have a Claim, or have any queries regarding a Claim, contact us direct info@ajcconsultants.ltd.uk for free professional advice or visit: www.info@ajcconsultants.ltd.uk for more information.
