The first thing we do when winter arrives is grab warmer clothing and turn up the heating – but there are a few things you need to consider around your home to make sure it is also prepared for the change of weather.
The following is a handy checklist to help you prepare your home for the winter season:
- Ensure smoke alarms are installed and working
Unfortunately winter brings an increase in frequency of house fires due to faulty electrical items, candles or items catching fire on heaters. Make sure your smoke alarms are working and check the battery monthly.
- Clear gutters and downpipes
With leaves falling and branches blowing around at this time of the year, you need to make sure your gutters and downpipes are clear. 
- Check your roof for leaks
Look out for cracked tiles on your roof and worn sealing.
- Trim trees
Are there any overhanging branches that could damage your home if they fell in a storm?
- Prepare your pool and garden furniture
Make sure your pool and garden furniture are clean and securely covered.
- Get your car and caravan under cover
If you haven’t got a garage or car port, consider buying covers for your car and caravan.
- Check your door seals
Doors will contract as the temperature cools and seals will wear over time.
- Make sure any sliding window or door tracks are clean
Dirt will wear the rollers and they will leak over time once they are worn.
- Check your water pipes
Contraction from the change in temperature could have broken a seal, so make sure there are no leaks.
Make sure you undertake your winter preparations safely using the correct tools and equipment.
Remember too, that the best protection for your home is CGU home and contents insurance – have you got the right and appropriate insurance cover for your family? Speak to a CGU insurance adviser today.
Click here to find the right insurance adviser near you.