Winter weather warning: how to protect homes and cars from ice and snow

As the Met Office issues a rare amber warning for snow for Scotland, and yellow warnings for snow and ice covering parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales*, Go.Compare is urging people to make sure they are prepared.

Ceri McMillian, Go.Compare’s car and home insurance expert, said: “With sub-zero temperatures and snow forecast for some parts, we’re urging people to take extra safety precautions.

“As well as making sure you and your family are safe and warm, protecting your property against freezing conditions can also be a key priority.

“Snow and ice can be lots of fun, but it can also cause a number of issues for homeowners – including blocked drains, damaged roofs, ruptured pipes and electrical failures.”

Go.Compare has put together a winter weather checklist to help homeowners make sure they’re as prepared as they can be:

• Check your home and the exterior for any damage and repair it properly – replace cracked windows, fix any leaks on the roof, clear out the gutters, and replace any damaged sections you see. If you don’t feel confident about doing the repairs yourself, get the professionals in to take a look.
• Insulating loft spaces, water tanks, pipes, and outdoor taps will help prevent them freezing over.
• Look after your boiler – make sure you get it serviced regularly in-line with manufacturer guidance, and check all radiators and thermostats are working well.
• Protect outdoor structures like sheds by repairing any damage, replacing rotten wood and weather-proofing as best you can.
• It may also be worth stocking up on torches, blankets and other essentials in case of a power cut.

“When it comes to home insurance, it’s also really important that you know what you are covered for so you aren’t left out of pocket should you need to claim,” continued Ceri.

“Insurance cover can vary widely, so check the details of your policy carefully. Most home insurance policies will have some cover in place for any damage caused by storms, ice and snow, but insurance won’t cover you for any existing issues that haven’t been fixed prior to the extreme weather. You will need to prove that your home was in a good state of repair prior to the damage or your claim may be rejected.”

Go.Compare home insurance has written a guide on what homeowners should do if they need to make a claim for weather damage:  https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/weather-damage-and-home-insurance/.

Motorists, too, are being urged to take extra precautions with the freezing weather conditions.

Ceri added: “Extreme weather conditions can be treacherous for motorists. Drivers should allow more time for their journey – to get their vehicle ready before heading off, for reducing their speed in line with road and weather conditions and, any road blockages or other delays.”

Tips for winter driving

• Clear your car’s windows, mirrors, numberplate and lights of ice or snow before setting off. It is also illegal to drive with snow on top of your car.
• Stock-up on de-icer and antifreeze. Don’t use warm or boiling water to defrost your car’s windscreen as this can cause it to crack, particularly if it already has a chip or crack in it.
• Don’t leave your car unattended and unlocked with engine running while demisting it could invalidate your insurance if it is stolen.
• Drive appropriately for the weather conditions, giving yourself plenty of extra time.
• Remind yourself of the location of your car’s fog lights before you need to use them.
• Driving through big puddles and splashing pedestrians is a Road Traffic offence.
• Driving through flood water can be dangerous and any damage caused to your car may not be covered by insurance.
• Organise an emergency kit to keep in your car. Things like a blanket, water, long shelf-life food stuffs, a small spade – items that will keep you warm and sustained should you get stuck in your car in cold weather.
• Plan your route, check the traffic reports and make sure friends or family know the route you are travelling.
• Ensure you have a mobile phone charger in the car, should you get stuck for a long time.