Protecting your property and possessions in Autumn and Winter

| Kingfisher Private Client

The Winter season often brings with it the threat of more severe weather, along with the increased risk of theft – particularly over the holiday season, but there are several steps that you can take to help to reduce the distress and disruption.

Here are our top tips to help you to prepare.

Flood & Storm

Flood and storms can cause water to enter the home and cause damage to furnishings and possessions. For floods:

  • Try to prevent the flood water from entering your home – if you live a flood risk area this could be by using flood defenses or by keeping some sandbags ready to use.
  • Try to move as much as possible from the ground level to upstairs to limit the damage. This could include any valuable assets, electronic equipment and soft furnishings.
  • If possible, move your vehicle(s) to higher ground. Cars can easily be lifted by fast flowing water.

For storms:

  • Storm weather can often cause flash floods so consider taking the steps outlined in the flood information above.
  • Check the condition of roofs on your properties – this can include annexes, outbuildings, garages and sheds. Don’t forget to also check that gutters and drains are clear and able to carry away water.
  • Be mindful of any loose items in your garden in high winds and whether these could be secured elsewhere during the storm.
  • Additionally, trees in your garden or on/surrounding your estate could cause damage – try to ensure these are maintained to limit the damage.

Escape of Water

In addition to the damage that weather can cause, the escape of water can also cause significant damage to property and possessions. In addition to the usual tip of setting your thermostat to avoid pipes freezing during icy conditions, here are some more top tips to avoid escape of water damage.

  • Insulate any exposed water pipes and tanks
  • Repair dripping taps and ensure any tanks are regularly maintained.
  • Check if your policy includes Home Emergency – this can be especially useful if the heating fails or isn’t working as it should.
  • If you are leaving your property unoccupied for a length of time, consider leaving the loft hatch open to allow air to circulate.

You could also consider installing a leak detection system. Some insurance policies may offer these as part of the policy

Home Security

Protecting your property and estate can act as a deterrent to thieves, here are some tips:

  • Alarms and CCTV (including smart doorbells) – these are visual deterrants that show you are being proactive about home security. Consider if CCTV is required elsewhere – perhaps covering the inside and directly outside garage(s) or any outbuildings, entrances or exits to the property.
  • During the holiday season, be aware of how you dispose of packaging. The packaging can often signal that presents and expensive goods are in the house (often sitting beneath the Christmas tree). Top tip: make sure that your contents cover is up to date.
  • If you are leaving your property unoccupied during the holiday season consider whether a trusted contact could check the house and/or estate whilst you’re away. This could also be useful if there’s inclement weather arriving.

This is just a selection of tips that you can undertake to protect your property and possessions across the colder months. If you’d like to discuss the cover you have in place for your vehicle collections or properties, please contact your Client Manager or speak to a member of our friendly team on 0207 655 8040.

Latest News