Vacant properties are always vulnerable to damage but as the temperature drops, the harsh winter weather brings a whole new set of risks. The good news is that a lot of weather-related damage is easily avoidable. However, without the right precautions, you could find yourself spending thousands on repair costs - not ideal after such a tough year!

In this four-part series, we’ve already given you our best tips for preventing winter crime and stopping mould from setting in. In this post, we’re here to tell you everything we know about winter-weather damage.

Winter Weather Property Damage

From flooding to frozen pipes, weather-damage is no joke – especially in the winter. Aviva reported that insurance claims for burst pipes have been known to skyrocket by 500% during the colder months. It only takes a small amount of stagnant water to freeze and expand in your pipes and you could find yourself with huge water damage costs. It’s not only burst pipes you need to look out for. Winter weather damage can range from small issues (like a blocked gutter) to much bigger and more expensive problems (think flooding or roofing damage).

Vacant properties find themselves at an increased risk. It could be weeks before you notice that dripping pipe or sagging gutter, making it all the more important to weatherproof your empty property this winter. With the average water-damage insurance claim at an estimated £25,000 for privately owned properties (or up to £100,000 for vacant commercial properties!) – we’ve put together 5 tips to prevent weather damage this winter.

Inspect Your Roof

A poorly maintained roof is at risk to all sorts of damage as the weather gets worse. First, check for any missing or damaged tiles - dislodged tiling could allow rainwater into the roof leading to mould or causing water damage. Next, check for bigger problems such as structural damage. It might look pretty, but snowfall can wreak havoc on poorly maintained roofs! Even the smallest amount of snow can add significant weight which could lead to slumping if the roof is not strong enough. Make sure to repair any damage, no matter how big or small, before the winter rolls in.

Empty Gutters Regularly

While you’re up on your roof, don’t forget about the gutters! After autumn, it’s likely your gutters will be full of leaves and other debris. Blocked gutters prevent effective water drainage meaning your vacant property is at a higher risk of water damage, damp and even flooding. Make sure to regularly visit the property and clear the gutters thoroughly to avoid unnecessary damage.

Prepare Your Pipes

Depending on how long your property will be vacant you will have made a decision to either: keep the central heating on (to maintain a reasonably warm, dry atmosphere), or to save money by turning off all utilities.

If you have decided to keep the central heating on, make sure that all of your pipework is properly lagged. Without proper insulation, your pipes will be at risk of freezing and bursting causing huge damage to your property. Even a tiny drip can become a big problem if it goes unnoticed.

If you have decided to turn utilities off, make sure you drain your central heating system so no stagnant water is left sitting in the pipes (also a freeze-and-burst risk). Be aware that a vacant property left unheated will be at risk of mould – you can read our tips for preventing that here.

Check Your Insurance

Many property insurers will require you to pay for ‘unoccupied property insurance’ if it will be vacant for more than 30 days. Make sure to contact your insurance supplier and discuss the details of your cover. It may be an expense you weren’t expecting to pay, but with all the added risks associated with winter, it’s really important to make sure your property is fully insured. We get into the nitty-gritty about this over on our post about Vacant Property Insurance.

Consider Property Guardians

The best way to protect against winter damage in your empty property? Don’t leave it empty!

Property Guardianship is a zero-cost solution that can save you thousands of pounds on property rates and maintenance visits. By living on-site, guardians are able to prevent expensive damage by catching small issues before they become big problems. There is no need for alarm systems, CCTV or manned guarding - plus you’ll be making a positive contribution to your local community by providing short-term accommodation for key workers and professionals.

At Blue Door Property Guardians, we assist with preparing your vacant property for our vetted guardians to move into. During the guardianship, we set up reporting systems and regular inspections to ensure your property is fully secured and, when you no longer need our services, we have an efficient 30-day hand-back! All at zero cost to you.

Think we can help? Get in touch today via our website or call us on 02078594213 for more information.