Your Property Won’t Tell You When It’s Cold, But Your Pipes Will!
- Preventor Building Services Limited
- Oct 31
- 3 min read
A Winter Maintenance Checklist for Every Homeowner
As temperatures drop, your property becomes more vulnerable, not just to frost, but to small oversights that can turn into big expenses. I’ve seen homeowners lose hundreds to burst pipes, damp walls, or boilers that give up right when they’re most needed.
At Preventor Building Services, winter is the season we prepare for all year. Here’s a simple, practical checklist that can help you protect your home, save money, and avoid emergency call-outs when the weather turns.
🔧 1. Check and Insulate Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common issues we encounter in winter. Make sure any exposed pipes, especially in lofts, garages, or basements, are properly insulated. Foam sleeves are inexpensive, quick to install, and can save you from a costly repair.
Pro tip: If you plan to be away from home, keep your heating on low rather than off. The constant low temperature helps prevent pipes from freezing.
🌡️ 2. Service Your Boiler Early
Most people wait until their boiler fails to call an engineer. By then, it’s too late and too expensive. Book your annual service before temperatures drop below zero for the best prices. Remember, pricing and demand is a thing! you’ll avoid the rush and ensure your system runs efficiently throughout the season.
Remember: A serviced boiler consumes less energy and keeps your home safer.
🪟 3. Inspect Windows and Doors
Tiny gaps in seals or frames can let in cold air and drive up your heating costs. Check for drafts and reseal any openings. A simple draught excluder or weatherstrip can make a significant difference in comfort and energy bills.
💧 4. Clean Gutters and Drains
Fallen leaves and debris block gutters, causing water to overflow and freeze. This can damage walls and create leaks inside your property. Make it a habit to clean your gutters before the first frost. If you live in an area with lots of trees, do it twice, once in late autumn and again mid-winter.
🌨️ 5. Test Outdoor Lighting and Safety Features
Winter means shorter days and slippery paths. Check that your outdoor lights, motion sensors, and security systems are all working properly. Replace bulbs, tighten fittings, and keep entrances well lit; it’s a simple way to improve both safety and security.
🪴 6. Protect Outdoor Fixtures
Garden taps, hoses, and external equipment should be drained and disconnected before freezing weather sets in. Use a tap cover to protect exposed fittings, they cost less than a cup of coffee but can prevent a cracked pipe and water damage.
🏠 7. Check Your Roof and Loft
A quick visual inspection can help you spot broken tiles, sagging areas, or signs of leaks before they worsen. Inside the loft, look for damp patches or mould growth, both are early warnings of heat escaping through the roof.
🕯️ 8. Review Your Heating Habits
Set your thermostat to a consistent, moderate temperature. Extreme fluctuations can stress your boiler and waste energy. Smart thermostats are a worthwhile investment; they learn your routine and help maintain an even temperature efficiently.
Your home doesn’t need constant attention, but it does appreciate preparation. A little care before winter can save you from emergency repairs, unnecessary stress, and high energy bills.
Save this checklist, and it might spare you one expensive call-out.
If you’d rather have an expert inspect your property before winter, Preventor Building Services offers professional maintenance surveys and detailed reports for both residential and commercial clients. We focus on clear communication, honest quoting, and reliable service across the UK.
