The last two winters have been particularly harsh, and although it has been mild so far this autumn, no-one knows what’s round the corner.

Burst pipes can cause extensive damage if not sorted out quickly. Now is the time to remind your tenant about measures they can take to minimise the risk of burst pipes and what to do in the event of a burst.

You may also want to remind tenants how to contact you or your contractor in case of emergency. Better still, make sure the pipes and cold water tank are fully insulated and make sure your tenant knows where the stop tap is. 

Insulate the loft (and cavity walls, if present) – contact the energy companies for details of any grant offers that may be available.

Tips you may wish to pass on to tenants.

• Keep the central heating running low if it is forecast to freeze. This is particularly important if your tenant is likely to be away from the property for a few days over the festive period.

• Leave doors open on kitchen and bathroom cabinets. This will allow warmer air to circulate and reach pipes under sinks and in adjacent outside walls.

• Make sure your tenant knows where the stop tap is and check it regularly so that it can be turned off easily in an emergency. Consider labelling it so it is easily recognisable.

• If your tenant is likely to be away for a long time over the winter period, it may be worth draining the cold water system.

What to do if the pipes freeze
Turn off the water supply:

• Turn off the main stop tap. You should find this under the kitchen sink or where the service pipe enters your home.

• Turn off the stopcock in your cold water tank if you have one. This will usually be found in the attic or loft.

• Protect everything around the pipe that appears to be frozen to avoid damage if it bursts.

• Open the tap nearest to the part of the pipe you think is frozen so the water can flow through when it has melted.

• Thaw the ice in the pipe with a hot water bottle or warm towels.

If the property is empty, a burst pipe can go un-noticed for some considerable time. 

You should also check your insurance as most policies are invalidated if the property is left empty for between 1 – 3 months. In this case, it is strongly advised that owners turn off their water and drain the system should the property need to be vacant over the winter months, and discuss any issues with the insurance providers.

The councils in Lincolnshire are committed to returning empty properties to use, and should you know of an empty which is causing a concern, or, should you own a home you would like to return to use we urge you to speak to you local council.

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