The signs are that the winter of 2010 is going to be cold…very cold! Some parts of the United Kingdom have had temperatures close to -20C and even the big cities have regularly dropped below freezing. With icy conditions and more snow on the way, are our homes a warm and safe place for us to hibernate this winter?
Insurance firms are warning that everyone needs to winter proof the home. An unwanted plumbing bill due to a burst pipe or a defunct boiler could not come at a worse time with Christmas just around the corner. Although many household insurance policies will provide cover for some damage caused by emergencies, everyone should have full protection against all potential winter hazards.
Not having cover for your heating and hot water boiler is nothing less than folly really. If the worst happens and the boiler is a write-off, it will take a substantial sum to replace the boiler, even a small breakdown will leave you with a cold and miserable house until you find a tradesman to cure the fault. Of course he will have to be paid too. Some insurers will include cover in a home insurance policy, paying for call-out charges, some labour costs, parts and materials. With others extra cover can be added to a policy which will pay for call-out charges, labour costs, parts and repair to the domestic heating or water system.
Check to see if the roof has any loose or missing tiles. If it does, get them fixed before the winter weather gets any worse. Make sure all the gutters are clear from any blockages. A build up of water on the roof can lead to leaks and may even cause damage to the structure of the property. It is also a good idea to check the seal around the windows and that the doors have no gaps.
Cold and icy weather means that there is a risk of pipes freezing, then bursting and flooding the home. This can be prevented by repairing any cracks which may let in cold air and insulating the pipes properly. Even something as simple as making sure that everyone in the home knows where the stopcock is so it can be turned off quickly in the event of an emergency can be vital.
Finally, make an emergency winter survival kit so that the household will be prepared if the worst happens. It is a good idea to have a torch, some candles, some blankets, tinned food and a first aid kit. Ensure everyone in the home knows where the kit is located. Always keep a copy of the household insuranceAll sizes Sweet Home #2 Flickr – Photo Sharing! policy to hand as well as a phone number for an emergency plumber and electrician.