Get your home and property Autumn ready (read time: two minutes)
Taking a few precautions before the onset of Winter weather can help you avoid potential claims and prevent the need for more extensive repairs later on. Here are seven steps you can take to ready your home and property for the Autumn season:
Clear your gutters: Ensure your gutters are free of leaves and debris, and check for any leaks. Blocked gutters can freeze, causing damage to the building if they pull away due to ice buildup.
Roof inspection: Examine your roof for broken, loose, or missing slates, tiles, mortar, or flashings. Be vigilant for early signs of leaks or condensation on ceilings, especially at the outer edges.
Trim trees: Prune trees near your home to reduce the risk of storm damage and minimise the amount of leaves falling into the guttering.
Boiler maintenance: Include a boiler service or inspection in your Autumn checklist to prevent potential breakdowns during the colder months.
Enhance home security: With longer hours of darkness, the occurrence of burglary claims tends to rise. Take this opportunity to review and bolster your home security measures.
Travel discretion: If you’re heading for a Winter getaway, resist the temptation to share your travel plans on social media, as this could inadvertently advertise your vacant property to potential thieves.
Maintain contents insurance: Ensure your contents insurance is current and offers sufficient coverage for all your belongings, giving you peace of mind in case of unforeseen events.
By taking these proactive measures, you’ll not only be better prepared to face the challenges of Autumn and Winter but also safeguard your home, property, and peace of mind. Prevention and preparation are key to maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment throughout the changing seasons.