When temperatures plummet and the cold sets in, leaving a building empty throughout the winter can be a big worry for property owners. However, there are some preventative steps you can take now to avoid costly repairs and unnecessary stress later down the line. Whether you’re between tenants, awaiting a sale or going away temporarily, here are some useful tips for keeping a vacant property safe, warm and secure throughout the winter months.

Preventing Burst Pipes and Water Damage

Cold weather is one of the biggest threats to an empty home. Frozen pipes can quickly turn into burst pipes, leading to major leaks that can wreak havoc in your rooms and cause structural damage to the property. You can protect the plumbing by keeping the heating on low and maintaining a steady temperature of around 12 – 15°C to prevent pipes from freezing. Pay special attention to pipes in lofts, garages and unheated spaces and insulate any exposed pipes.

If the property will be empty for a long period, ask a professional to fully drain the water system, and make sure to check for any dripping taps or minor leaks, as small issues often become big problems in cold weather.

Leave any loft hatches slightly ajar as this will allow warm air to circulate and prevent cold spots around pipes in the roof space.

Guarding Against Rodents and Pests

Empty homes can easily become winter hideaways for all sorts of creatures, including mice, rats and other visitors seeking warmth and food. Therefore, it’s vital to take steps to deter any unwelcome pests. Start by checking and sealing gaps around doors, vents, pipework and the roofline. Even tiny holes can be enough for mice to get through.

Before the property is vacated, clear out all edible items, including pet food and dry goods, and clean the property thoroughly (leftover crumbs and clutter will encourage nesting).

If you opt for a pest deterrent, consider using humane traps, ultrasonic devices or pest-repellent sachets. Make a quick visit to the property every week to look for any early signs of animal activity, such as droppings or gnawed materials.

Maintaining Good Ventilation

Condensation, damp and mould thrive in closed-up properties without adequate ventilation. To maintain ventilation throughout the property, leave trickle vents open on windows. If the building suffers from damp, use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. Avoid completely shutting the property down, as a little airflow goes a long way.

Improving Security

Empty properties can be vulnerable to break-ins, but a few simple precautions can make a big difference to the building’s security. Set up timer switches for lights to give the appearance of occupancy and keep blinds or curtains slightly open (fully closed curtains can advertise that the property is vacant). If alarms and CCTV are installed, make sure they are active and working correctly. For added peace of mind, let a trusted neighbour know that the building is vacant so they can keep an eye out for any unusual activity.

Regular Property Checks

Whether you visit yourself, ask a neighbour to pop round or instruct a property management service to take a look, winter checks on your property are essential while it is vacant. Issues to look out for include signs of leaks, condensation or damp patches, unusual smells, evidence of pests and damage caused by storms or high winds.

Some insurance policies require periodic inspections for properties left empty, so always check the small print.

Don’t Forget the Outside

Winter weather can also take its toll on the property’s exterior, but some general maintenance and preparation can guard against future damage. Make sure to regularly clear gutters and downpipes to prevent blockages and overflow, and check the roof for any missing tiles. Trim back any overhanging branches that could fall in storms or bad weather, and secure garden furniture or bins to avoid damage.

The Bottom Line

A little preparation goes a long way in protecting an empty property throughout the winter months. By taking these simple steps, property owners can reduce the risk of burst pipes, rodent infestations and other cold-weather problems, helping to maintain the property’s condition and value.

If you’d like any advice on managing a vacant property, the team at Whitaker Seager will be happy to help.