Winter-proof
your home
Ten checks for a trouble-free winter
Preparing for winter can make a huge difference to both your comfort and finances. And it
doesn’t have to be hard work. Simply follow our ten checks for a trouble-free winter and you’ll
be equipped to stay cosy, warm and dry whatever the weather.
1. Guttering and drains
6. Insulation
Clear out any leaves and debris that could cause a blockage
– this ensures that rain and melting snow can flow away from
your home. If you have to climb a ladder, make sure there’s
someone to hold it steady.
Because heat rises, it’s a good idea to check the loft to
see whether you need to add further insulation. Also,
lagging pipes and water tanks will prevent heat escaping
and reduce the risk of ice forming.
2. Roof and exterior walls
7. Locks on doors, windows and gates
Check the roof from ground level for any potential problem
signs such as loose or missing tiles. Then examine exterior
walls for cracked, loose or missing pointing or rendering. If
you find any, have it repaired before water can get in.
Check all locks are secure and in good working order to
prevent gates from swinging open and causing damage
in blustery weather. Applying a drop of oil will help to stop
hinges and bolts from seizing up too.
3. Boiler and radiators
8. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Bleeding radiators is one of the easiest ways to improve
the efficiency of your heating. It’s also a good idea to have
your boiler serviced by a registered engineer to ensure it’s
ready for its busiest time of the year.
You should check all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
every six months to make sure they are functioning
correctly and their batteries are not low – a quick job that
will give you lasting peace of mind.
4. Chimneys
9. Are you well stocked?
If you use an open or wood-burning fire, you should
have the chimney and flues swept every year. This will
clear the potentially dangerous build up of soot and any
obstructions that may have occurred over the warmer
months.
Most power cuts happen in winter. So, in the event of
one occurring in the dark, having a torch, candles and
matches in an easy-to-reach place will make it so much
easier to deal with.
5. Windows and doors
10. Do you have a list of useful numbers in
case of emergency?
Faulty seals around windows and doors allow warm air to
escape and cold air to get in. Blocking these draughts can
make a big difference, and using a draught excluder at the
bottom of doors is also an effective measure.
Having all your useful numbers together in one place
means you won’t have to go looking for them in an
emergency. We’ve listed the most important below for you
to complete – and keep safe.
If you’re unsure about carrying out any of the above, please
consult an appropriate and trusted tradesperson.
Find more useful tips or share your own at
Facebook.com/yourcambridge or Twitter @cambridgebs.
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Winter-proof
your home
Insurance that meets your needs
These useful tips will help you to prepare your home for winter, however it’s very
important that you have sufficient home insurance cover to make sure you’re
protected should the worst happen.
Cambridge Home Insurance has been developed to suit you! We’ll help tailor your
insurance policy exactly how you want it – so you’ll only pay for what you need.
alk to one of our friendly staff in branch today,
T
call us on 0345 601 3344 or arrange a quote
online at cambridgebs.co.uk/insurance
If your current home insurance is not due for renewal right now, we can still give
you a quote – and you can transfer to Cambridge Home Insurance when your
current policy runs out. Our quotes remain valid for 180 days.
Complete this list of all the important numbers you
might need in an emergency – and keep it safe!
My home insurance provider
Provider
Policy no.
Tel
My trusted tradespeople
PlumberTel
Gas engineer
Tel
Electrician Tel
BuilderTel
HandymanTel
My utility suppliers
Water
Customer no.
Tel
Electricity
Customer no.
Tel
Gas
Customer no.
Tel
THE
CAMBRIDGE
Building Society
Customer Contact Centre
0345 601 3344
Open 8.30am-8.30pm Mon-Fri; 9.00am-5.00pm Sat
The Cambridge Building Society
Head Office, PO Box 232,
51 Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8FF
[email protected]
All communications with us may be monitored/recorded to improve the quality
of our service and for your protection and security.
Cambridge Home Insurance is subject to acceptance criteria; underwriting and conditions apply. The selling of Cambridge Home Insurance is undertaken by The Cambridge Building Society. The policy is underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance
Insurance plc. (no. 93792). Registered in England and Wales at St Mark’s Court, Chart Way, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1XL. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential
Regulation Authority. The policy is administered by PlusOne Administration Services Ltd, 1st Floor Maitland House, Warrior Square, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 2JY. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.