As we approach October, it's the perfect time to get your home winter-ready. By taking a few simple steps now, you can keep your home warm, safe and well-ventilated over the coming months.
Storms, gales and heavy rain
- Secure loose items: Bring garden furniture, bins, plant pots etc into your shed or garage. If that's not possible, tie them down.
- Check trees and branches: Dead or damaged trees can cause significant damage. Let us know via MyHastoe if a tree on our land looks unstable. If it's on your property, please contact a qualified professional.
- Inspect fences: If a fence near a public path or road appears to be falling or bulging, please report it via MyHastoe or phone us. If you can do so safely, prop it up or relocate it if it’s already fallen.
- Watch for roof leaks: Slipped or missing roof tiles can let in moisture during winter storms. While we can’t use ladders during severe weather, please notify us via MyHastoe or phone us.
- Gutters and drains: Fallen leaves and debris can block guttering and drains, increasing the risk of water damage. If your gutters are blocked or broken, report it as soon as possible. If you notice blocked road drains, please inform your local council.
- Protect doors and vehicles: Check that all doors and windows are securely fastened. Park cars away from trees, walls, or fences if you don’t have access to a garage.
- Review your insurance: Storms can cause unexpected damage. Hastoe insures the building you live in, but we do not insure your home contents or personal belongings. As winter approaches, it's a good time to check you have home contents insurance in place.
Read more on storms, gales and heavy rain
Cold, ice and snow
- Know your stopcock: Familiarise yourself with the location of your stopcock and the isolation valves (often under sinks or toilets). Knowing how to turn them off can limit damage in the event of a burst or leak.
- Boiler check: Try your heating now to catch small issues early. Keep vents dust-free and unobstructed, check radiator valves, thermostat batteries and note down any fault codes before calling.
- Safety alarms: Ensure your carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is functional.
- Watch for damp and mould: Reduced ventilation and heating in winter can lead to condensation and mould. Read our top tips for preventing damp and mould.
- Beware of icy paths: Dark or shiny patches on walkways and car parks may be ice so always tread carefully to avoid slips and falls.
Read more on cold, ice and snow
If you are worried about paying your energy bills this winter, there are a number of organisations that can offer free advice and support:
