Keeping your home safe during winter: Essential tips and how home insurance helps
Winter brings unique challenges for homeowners, from freezing temperatures to increased risks of storm damage. Preparing for the season can help safeguard your clients' homes, reduce potential repair costs and provide valuable peace of mind. Here are some practical tips to help your clients protect their properties during winter, and an overview of how First2Protect can support with tailored home insurance.
Protect pipes from freezing
Freezing weather can cause pipes to burst, leading to significant water damage.
Tip: Insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as attics or garages. Keep heating on low during freezing nights and consider letting taps drip slightly to prevent freezing.
How insurance helps: Water damage from burst pipes is a common issue, with insurers paying out £1.8 million daily for escape of water claims. First2Protect home insurance covers such damages, alleviating financial stress.
2. Keep gutters clear
Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, damaging foundations and roofs.
Tip: Regularly remove leaves and debris from gutters before the first frost. Install gutter guards to prevent blockages.
How insurance helps: Weather-related incidents, including floods and storms, account for 27% of all home insurance claims. First2Protect ensures quick recovery from such unexpected damages.
3. Inspect roofs for weak spots
Heavy snow and ice can place a lot of stress on roofs, leading to leaks or structural issues.
Tip: Check for loose tiles or shingles and repair them before winter. Promptly clear any snow that builds up to prevent damage.
How insurance helps: Storm damage is a significant concern, with insurers paying out £573 million for weather-related home insurance claims in 2023. First2Protect provides support for repairs or replacements due to extreme weather.
4. Install carbon monoxide detectors
Using your heating more increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Tip: Service your heating systems and chimneys regularly and install carbon monoxide detectors for added safety.
How insurance helps: First2Protect prioritises your clients’ safety by offering policies that cover structural repairs, in case of heating system malfunctions.
5. Secure doors and windows
The dark nights of winter can increase fears about home intrusions.
Tip: Seal gaps with weatherstripping, use deadbolts and install outdoor lighting to deter burglars.
How insurance helps: Theft accounts for 14% of home insurance claims. First2Protect covers theft and break-ins, enhancing home security.
6. Prepare for winter storms and power outages
Storms can cause power cuts and external damage to homes.
Tip: Stock emergency essentials such as flashlights, blankets and backup power supplies. Trim overhanging branches to reduce storm-related risks.
How insurance helps: Weather-related claims have reached record levels, with insurers paying out £1.4 billion in claims during the second quarter of 2024 due to weather-related catastrophes. First2Protect assists with recovery from structural damage or loss of utilities.
Why Partner with First2Protect?
At First2Protect, we understand that a home is more than just a building—it's where memories are made. Our comprehensive home insurance policies offer peace of mind during winter and beyond.
By referring your clients to First2Protect, you're ensuring they receive:
• 24/7 support: Assistance when they need it most.
• Tailored coverage: Flexible options to meet their diverse needs.
• Reliable protection: Coverage for every season and event, with a commitment to quick and effective issue resolution.
Refer your clients to First2Protect today and provide them with the reassurance that their homes are fully protected. Together, we'll help them weather any storm and safeguard their homes for the future.
