‘WINTER IS COMING’ AND MILLIONS AREN’T READY

• A third (33 per cent) of households haven’t even considered preparing their homes for winter
• 56 per cent haven’t carried out essential winter checks because they believe ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’
• More than one in ten Brits never have their boiler checked or serviced 
• Almost two thirds (62 per cent) of the UK do not check their roof for damage each year

With winter fast approaching protecting our homes from the bad weather should be high on the priority list. However, millions are completely unprepared with a third (33 per cent) of people not even considering getting their home winter ready, according to the latest research from Direct Line Home Insurance¹.

More than one in ten (13 per cent) people admit to never having their boiler or heating checked or serviced. The same proportion (13 per cent) get this done less than once a year, which can help to identify any faults. A broken boiler risks people, who may be extremely vulnerable, being left with no heating or hot water when temperatures plummet. Two fifths (41 per cent) of those who do not maintain their boiler say they don’t as they do not believe it is broken. Boiler issues are often ones you can’t see or find, so it’s worthwhile having them checked regularly to ensure they are running safely and efficiently.

The one in ten not getting the boiler checked are worried about the cost of doing so (11 per cent). Ten per cent say they didn’t realise boilers needed maintenance and servicing and nine per cent say they forget to do it.

Boilers are not the only item requiring maintenance, roofs can become a big issue throughout the winter months especially with heavy rainfall and stormy conditions. Almost two thirds (62 per cent) do not regularly check their roof for damage and a third (31 per cent) never have their roof checked at all. Getting your roof checked, whether by yourself or by a professional can help to identify and avoid issues that could potentially cause leaks. Water seeping into the building structure or coming through the roof into the house can cause significant damage.

Table One: Elements of the home which require regular maintenance and those who do not get them checked 

Source: Direct Line Home Insurance 2024

Ensuring your guttering is clear so water can filter into the drainage can help avoid leaks and damp walls during heavy rainfall. Over a fifth (22 per cent) of people claim to never check their guttering, which at this time of year is likely to be holding leaves, moss and debris. Almost one in ten (nine per cent) of these people say they don’t because they didn’t know when this should be completed and a further nine per cent just forget.

Dan Simson, Head of Direct Line Home Insurance, commented: “Colder, windier, and wetter months can create huge issues around the home, which is why we’re encouraging people to complete checks before winter sets in. People should be actively thinking about servicing boilers, checking roofs and guttering for signs of damage or disrepair. We want people to be safe in their homes when they could be faced with cold snaps, heavy rainfall and storms.

“Damage to your home can be disruptive and incredibly emotional. Especially when it is not only your home, but your personal and irreplaceable belongings that get damaged. We are in October and the weather is beginning to turn, so it is the best time to either call in a professional, or if safe to do so, check some of these essentials yourself to avoid damage to your home.”

Craig Phillips, Property Developer, TV and video presenter, said: “It’s a well-known saying if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail and in this case it is very apparent. Getting your house in order before the winter weather hits can really help to avoid significant issues from occurring. I’ve worked in this industry for 35 years and I’ve experienced all too many times what can happen when roofs start to leak and boilers stop working. There’s nothing worse than being in the depths of winter and not having any heating and hot water to make a house a home. 

“My advice would be to start thinking about what you need for winter now. Consider getting an expert opinion on things like your roof, drains and boiler. But if you don’t think that’s necessary then why not just go and quickly turn it on, check it’s all in order just ahead of that first winter freeze.” 

Winter checklist tips from Craig:

• Heating system: Check that your boiler works ahead of temperatures dropping, arrange a boiler service if one is due. Bleed radiators and lag any pipes that could be exposed to frost. If you are planning to use a fireplace, make sure the chimney is clean and clear of blockages. I recommend people turn on the system on every two to three months, just for 30 minutes to keep it ticking over.
• Insulation and draft proofing: Check that the loft is properly insulated to retain heat and lag any pipes that could be exposed to frost. Draft proof windows and doors help retain heat. 
• Roof and gutters: Check the roof for damaged tiles and clear leaves, moss and debris from gutters to help prevent water damage. Check flashing and seals around the chimney, skylights and vents for damage or leaks.
• Exterior walls: Check walls for cracks that could let in moisture.
• Drainage: Check drains for blockages and make sure they are clear of leaves and debris to help prevent flooding. Shut off and drain outdoor taps. If this isn’t possible wrap insulating material around the tap to prevent it freezing.
• Supplies: Stock up on salt and grit in case it gets icy.

- ENDS -

Notes to Editors

¹   Opinium research, on behalf of Direct Line Insurance, of 2,000 adults looking into seasonal home maintenance. Carried out between 19^th and 23^rd September 2024.

For further information please contact:

Chelsey Wheeler

Deputy Head of News and Issues

Chelsey.wheeler@directlinegroup.co.uk

Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

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