Helpful hints to protect your home this winter

As it is probably the biggest financial investment of your life, making sure your home is protected and secure is a major priority, and with winter almost upon us it makes sense to carry out a few precautionary checks.

Here are a few helpful tips on how you can protect your home against any unwelcome damage or accidents this winter:

Freezing and burst pipes can be a real problem

The best way to safeguard your pipes is to insulate them - burst pipes can be a nightmare and prevention is better than a cure. Leave the central heating on for short periods of time throughout the day to maintain the heat in your house. Locate your stopcock so that you can turn off the entire supply in an emergency.

Check for dislodged roof tiles

Carry out an annual check on the outside of your property. It’s worth taking 10 minutes to do some basic checks around the home to help prevent a small leak from becoming a disaster.

• Clear gutters and drainpipes of leaves to prevent blockages and overflows
• Have your boiler serviced at least once a year
• Protect against burglary

"Insurance claims increase in winter as burglars take advantage of the longer hours of darkness. Simple measures such as security lighting, key-operated window and door locks and door bolts can go a long way towards deterring a burglar. Be sure to keep any out-buildings securely locked also."

Protect against a fire

A fire in the home is probably our most feared hazard. Many fires start at night, so make sure you have a bedtime fire safety routine to help keep your home and family safe. Every night you should unplug all electrical appliances not designed to stay on and close the doors of all unoccupied rooms. It is critical that that you have working smoke alarms throughout the house.

Have a home emergency kit on standby containing torches, warm clothing, blankets, and of course, your home insurance documents.