By now, you probably have your winter coat, you’ve found your hat and gloves and that recent blast of warm London weather is a fading memory. We’re already into December, the clocks have changed, you’re thinking about Christmas – you’re ready for winter.

You might be ready, but if you’re a landlord, can you say the same about your property?

The Government has launched Get Ready for Winter, a campaign advising the public of the many ways they can prepare.

The campaign’s website includes a section on protecting your home. Last December was the UK’s coldest since records began in 1910 and at The Islington Company we are eyeing the heaters in anticipation of the big freeze. The Association of British Insurers dealt with £900m of property damage claims. Over two thirds of these were for burst water pipes.

If a pipe bursts, do your tenants know what to do? Do they know where the stop-cock is?

It’s common for many tenants of residential property in London to go away for Christmas and New Year. Can you be confident your house or flat will be safe in the meantime?

Property owners are advised to check pipes are adequately lagged and the boiler is robust. Problems can occur when tenants turn on the central heating for the first time.

High flood risk is not something usually associated with residential property in London – however the Government is reminding people to check and sign up for free flood warnings via the Environment Agency website.

Other tips are for residential property landlords to check eligibility for grants and subsidies for home heating and insulation. The Government may have cut funding in some areas but it’s still worth checking with your local council or your energy supplier.

If there is no funding available, there are alternatives. The Government has some useful hints on draught proofing your residential property, which can be done “using simple products from your local DIY store.”

After all that’s been done, at The Islington Company we recommend you insulate yourself by enjoying a nice hot glass of mulled wine…cheers!