Householders should protect properties ahead of cold snap

As weather forecasters predict the UK is in for a spell of cold weather, households may wish to take steps to keep properties protected and reduce their fuel bills.

Research by Direct Line has indicated that 40 per cent of homes in the country could be vulnerable to damage to their pipes, roofs and boiler systems if freezing conditions hit.

According to the insurer, families should take action immediately to ensure that they are protected against harsh conditions and this could include investing in work that will also help them to create a more energy efficient home.

These could include installing insulation around pipes or boilers and upgrading heating systems with greener and more effective technology.

"Whilst this winter has proved mild so far, the current weather predictions should ring alarm bells for many householders," Direct Line head of home insurance Stuart Curson stated, adding that good maintenance of properties and lagging pipes "will go a long way to limiting the damage winter weather might cause".

Freezing temperatures last year affected three million Britons by causing damage to their houses, with 35 per cent of claims over the winter relating to damaged roofs and 31 per cent to frozen or burst pipes.

Santander Insurance has warned that with Siberian winds and snow expected to reach the UK this week, 25 per cent of people are worried about the effects of such conditions on their home, while 37 per cent are concerned that they will not be able to pay for their lighting and heating costs this winter.

The cold snap last year caused problems in an estimated 7.1 million homes in the UK, according to data from Saga.

A boiler breakdown or burst pipes can cause huge discomfort for families facing chilly homes in freezing weather and can lead to water damage that can cost large sums and a great deal of time to fix.

Investing in energy saving measures such as insulation can help to protect plumbing and drive down the readings on power monitors at the same time.