Preparing your house for winter

WITH autumn already here, and winter just around the corner, now is the time to make sure your home in France is ready for the coming months.

Despite many people heading to France for the sunshine, winters can be particularly hard with plummeting temperatures, heavy downpours and storm force winds.

I spotted a handy list on the Halifax Homes Insurance website that gives you a list of things that might be worth checking, a bit of an MOT for you home:

1. Roof - Check for loose tiles

2. Garden and outbuildings - Fasten doors and gates, check fencing is sturdy and secure all loose items

3. Guttering - Check for blockages and a firm fit to your house

4. Trees - Check for low hanging branches or unstable root structures

5. Heating - Set to at least 10°c to prevent pipes from freezing

6. Heating appliances - Get an expert to check that gas fires, boilers and central heating are in full working order

7. Loft - Check that the loft is properly insulated but that there is adequate ventilation

8. Chimney - Get the chimney swept and ensure it is free from a build-up of soot

9. Curtains - Check the thickness of your curtains, thicker ones will keep more heat in

10. Emergency Kit - Be prepared for an emergency. A basic emergency kit should include items such as: A torch or candles, matches, bag of salt/grit, important documents, shovel, back-up heating appliance etc

11. Insurance - Check your insurance covers home emergencies and keep the number of your provider to hand

12. Communication - Use the local radio service for up-to-date weather forecasts

And just from my own personal experience of having a wood burning fire try and get your logs under cover, don’t stick them under plastic sheeting.

What are your tips for preparing your home for winter? Please leave a comment below.

Comments

[Jack Hughes]

As well as radio, internet information is invaluable as always.

Also, see what your French neighbours do and ask their advice.