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21st November 2011

Prepare For Winter

Landlords can avoid having to make buy-to-let insurance claims this winter by taking steps to prepare their properties for the colder weather.

The government has this week launched its Get Ready for Winter campaign, which urges all property owners to ready their properties for winter, including taking steps to make sure pipes do not freeze and that boilers are in good working order.

Burst pipes in particular could cause a major headache for landlords as it can lead to extensive water damage.

Jean Spencer, regulation director for Anglian Water, which is backing the campaign, said the freezing temperatures last winter caused a record increase in burst pipes across the UK.

"The biggest increase in bursts was in properties," Mrs Spencer said.

"Thousands of homes were flooded by burst pipes. So beware of the hidden danger in your loft.

"A collapsed ceiling or coming home to water running down the stairs is a nightmare and can be a costly winter experience. "

There are a number of checks that landlords can take to protect themselves from property damage associated with wintry weather and avoid having to claim on their buy-to-let insurance.

According to industry body Water UK, property owners should check that water tanks and pipes are properly lagged ahead of winter and that here are no gaps at bends, valves or fittings.

They should make sure they know where the property's internal stopcock or valve is.

In the case of landlords, they will need to show tenants how to locate and operate the stopcock.

Finally, it is also a good idea to have your boiler serviced to make sure it is working properly before the temperature drops, especially if it has not been used during the summer months.

The Association of British Insurers has revealed that during December last year its members dealt with £900 million in property damage claims - the highest pay out yet made for damage caused by freezing weather.

Martin & Co - Woking Lettings 01483 727757