Have you considered how a heavy snowfall or rainfall might affect your home or services in winter? Did you know that snow and ice are unexpectedly heavy?
Snow and ice can cause many issues on buildings such as the below:
- Snow can force a roof to deflect, bow or even collapse
- It can damage ventilation systems and roof lights
- Unheated buildings are vulnerable as they might freeze
- Roof drainage systems can be blocked/plugged
- Melting snow combined with any rainfall can easily overwhelm building drainage systems and local drainage systems in the area which can result in localised flooding.
1. Check your Roof
Roof inspection is one of these maintenance jobs that is very easy to overlook. But don’t do it. We have had some pretty wet and windy weather already this year and it can’t have escaped your notice that the weather is becoming more unpredictable. Try to do a visual inspection from ground level. It is though advisable to have a professional check to your roof for any signs of damage such as missing tiles etc. In the event of a snow storm, make sure you remove snow from low roofs with a brush to stop it falling off and causing injury.
2. Gutters
It is very easy to have your gutters full of ice once the weather gets very cold. This could result in damage caused on external brickwork or even put them in danger of collapse. Clean out the gutters as soon as you get a chance to avoid any damage caused.
3. Inspect your Loft
Did the last time that you checked your loft was for putting away your summer luggage or finding the Christmas decorations? Check if you can find any sign of daylight and maybe you can avoid the inspection of your roof. Also take a look at your insulation in the roof space. Is it still good for use? Heating bills can be significantly reduced with comprehensive roof space insulation.
4. Boiler
Don’t forget to arrange a boiler service to come in for inspection of your boiler. You want to make sure that it works perfectly during the winter months.
5. Home Emergency Kit
Prepare a home emergency kit for any case. You should include the below:
– Portable mobile phone chargers
– Cash
– Torches
– Bottled water and canned food
– Blankets and waterproof clothing
– A list of local emergency phone numbers
– Your insurance cover details
– A first aid kit
6. Home Insurance Cover
There is no better time to review your current policy. Talk to your adviser today and make sure that you know what you are covered for and whether that cover is adequate for both the house and your valuables. If you haven’t already, consider adding Home Emergency cover to your home insurance policy in preparation for any household emergencies.
What to do in case of Damage
- Take photographs of any damage
- Keep receipts and damaged items to help with your insurance claim
