Winter home maintenance checklist

Our Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

 Home maintenance is important year round, if you want to keep your home in top shape. However, cold, wet weather can put your home under added pressure - frozen pipes, leaks, and condensation can cause real problems if you’re not ready. The good news is that a few quick checks now can help you avoid costly repairs later.

We’ve put together a simple checklist to help you protect your home, stay warm, and get peace of mind this winter.

Make sure your home is protected this winter with 1st Central Home Insurance.

Why It’s Important to Maintain Your Home in Winter

 When the temperature drops, your home has to work harder to keep you comfortable. Boilers run longer, roofs face strong winds, and pipes are more likely to freeze. A bit of regular maintenance keeps things running smoothly - and can help make sure your insurance stays valid.

 Common winter issues include:

• Leaking roofs
• Damp or mould
• Boiler breakdowns
• Storm damage  

Fixing damage after the fact can be expensive. Typical repair costs in the UK range from:

• £1,000–£3,000 for minor leaks
• £5,000–£10,000 for burst pipes and flooring damage
• £15,000–£30,000 for flooded rooms
• £50,000+ for severe water damage

A few simple checks now can save you time and money later down the line.

Getting Your Home Ready for Winter

Before it gets too cold, spend a bit of time preparing your home.

• Check insulation and draught-proofing
• Book your boiler service
• Look at your roof and gutters
• Stock up on essentials

It’s much easier, and cheaper, to prevent a problem than fix one.
1st Central Home Insurance can help if winter weather causes water or storm damage

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist 

Interior Maintenance

• Service your boiler

A professional check keeps it safe, efficient, and less likely to break down when you need it most.

• Bleed radiators

Releasing trapped air helps them heat evenly, saving energy and keeping your home comfortable.

• Insulate pipes and lofts

Protects against freezing temperatures and lowers heating costs.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Ensures you’re alerted quickly if there’s a problem, especially when using heating appliances more often.

• Seal draughts

Stops warm air escaping and reduces heating bills.

• Check for leaks in ceilings and attics

Catching damp early prevents expensive structural repairs later.

Exterior Maintenance

• Inspect your roof

Identifying and fixing missing tiles or cracks prevents future leaks and water damage.

• Clean gutters and drains

Keeps rainwater flowing freely and stops ice build-up that can damage walls or roofs.

• Trim overhanging trees

Reduces the risk of falling branches during high winds.

• Check outdoor lighting

Ensuring the lights are present and working makes paths safer and deters intruders during dark evenings.

• Secure garden furniture and fences

Prevents damage or injury during storms.

• Drain and cover outdoor taps

Helps prevent pipes from freezing, and stops frozen pipes from bursting and flooding.

• Tidy driveways and paths

Clearing moss and fixing cracks helps prevent slips and trips in icy weather.

Heating System & Energy Efficiency Tips

Small changes can help you stay warm and save money.

• Keep your heating on low when you’re away
• Use a smart thermostat
• Check radiators for cold spots
• Clean or replace vents and filters

Protect your home with 1st Central Home Insurance. 

Stay Safe and Secure This Winter

Winter can be tough on your home, but a little preparation makes a big difference. Follow this checklist, stay warm, and rest easy knowing you’ve done what you can to protect your space.

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Get a quote for 1st Central Home Insurance to protect your home this winter.