There are natural events such as wind, storms and flooding which are difficult to predict and prevent but you can almost guarantee one cold spell with freezing temperatures. You should remember that any claims on your insurance made during this period might well increase your premiums in the future, and insurance companies are often reluctant to pay out if basic precautions have not been taken.

There are a few steps you can take to help avoid the problems caused by burst pipes:

? Draft proof any garages, outbuildings and sheds that have water connected;
? Insulate any exposed pipe work or water tanks with adequate insulation if they are not in a warm environment;
? Know where the mains water stop tap and header tank are located in case of an emergency;
? If going away for any period of time leave the heating system to come on a couple of times a day and possibly leave the access hatch to the loft space open to allow warm air into colder spaces;
? If a pipe is frozen turn off the mains water supply and the header tank to help reduce water loss if the pipe bursts;
? Remember the pipes you can’t see – in floors, walls or inaccessible voids as they could hide the signs of a burst;
? Have the telephone number of an emergency plumber – if you think a pipe is frozen call him immediately as it is best to call a professional. If you want to do it yourself warm the pipe slowly and do not use naked flames;
? You are advised to check that the buildings insurance and contents insurance covers not just the pipes but also damage to furniture and flooring caused by burst pipes.

If a water pipe does burst you can help reduce the damage by the following:

? Switch off the central heating to reduce water flow;
? Open all the taps to drain the system;
? Collect water in containers;
? Turn off the electricity supply to any electrical goods or sockets that might have been damaged.

Hopefully, by taking these simple precautions it will help reduce the risk of a cold and wet winter in your home or place of work.