Is your home ready for winter?

As the winter months approach, it’s a good idea to complete some home maintenance checks to help keep you and your home as safe as possible. 

Take a look at our checklist of things to consider, like testing your heating and boiler. You can download it so you always have it handy!

1. Test your heating and check your boiler

Make sure your heating and boiler is working properly before it gets really cold. If there’s a problem, please get in touch as soon as possible so we can book an appointment to fix it.

We carry out annual gas safety checks in your home. If your appointment is due, please keep the appointment that’s been made. If you’ve missed your appointment, get in touch to rebook it as soon as possible.

If you’re a leaseholder or shared owner, you’re responsible for your own boiler and appliances. You should use a Gas Safe registered engineer to fit, fix and service your appliances. You can find an engineer at GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500.

2. Bleed your radiators

This is key for keeping your boiler running efficiently, which in turn keeps your home warm and your energy bills as low as possible.

3. Make sure you know where your stopcock is located

A stopcock is designed to control the flow of mains cold water into your home. They’re usually found in kitchens, below the sink unit or in the bathroom.

It’s important that you know where yours is in case of burst water pipes or leaks, so you can turn it off to limit any damage.

4. Check your gutters are clear of leaves

If the wind blows leaves into your gutters and it builds up, it can cause water to leak into the roof and sides of your home.

5. Consider taking out home contents insurance

As your landlord, it’s our responsibility to insure the building in which you live. But buildings insurance doesn’t cover your personal possessions.

We recommend that you arrange home contents insurance to cover your belongings from accidental damage and fire, flooding and theft.