Prevent problematic pipes
Following weeks of freezing temperatures LV= home insurance has offered advice to assist homeowners in preventing damage to their property during the ‘big thaw’.
- Ensure that no pipes have frozen by checking that all internal and external taps are working.
- Enable a frozen pipe to thaw out by opening the tap that is closest to the part of it that you believe is frozen. This will allow the melted ice to flow more easily.
- If a frozen pipe is discovered in the attic, open the hatch to allow warmer air to circulate.
- Use a hot water bottle, a cloth soaked in hot water or a hair dryer (ensuring that it does not come into contact with water) to thaw a frozen pipe. Start at the end of the pipe nearest to the tap and work towards the cold water tank.
- If it is suspected that a pipe has burst but the water in it is still frozen, switch off the water at the mains and turn off the cold water tank stopcock.
- Turn on all cold taps and flush the toilet a few times to drain the cold water system and to reduce water pressure.
- Turn the central heating off, along with any heaters, and turn on all hot taps to drain the hot water system.
- Get in touch with a local plumber or home insurance emergency helpline for immediate assistance.
- Let neighbours know where the stopcock is just in case a pipe bursts whilst the property is vacant. One less hour of leaking could save thousands of pounds worth of water damage.
- Move any furniture away from a frozen pipe prior to attempting to rectify the situation. This should keep damage to a minimum should the pipe burst.
- Ensure that heavy snow fall has not damaged guttering; otherwise residual water could cause property damage.
- Be sure to check any vacant properties that are owned, or any properties that are close by.
- When temperatures are due to drop overnight, leave the heating on low to avoid frozen pipes. If an ‘anti-frost’ mechanism is in place, this only applies to the boiler and not all of the pipes as well.
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Homeowners whose properties are in need of maintenance to withstand the elements could consider taking out a secured loan to fund any work required. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for home improvements could allow the borrower to embark upon a range of projects in and around their home. For example, a roof that is in a state of disrepair could be replaced to ensure that it is watertight and to enhance heat retention within the property. Furthermore, homeowners whose properties have experienced water damage could utilise secured loan funds for the purpose of refurbishment and redecoration.
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