The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is encouraging property owners and managers to keep an out out for the effects of winter weather on their property. People leaving premises for any length of time are advised to turn their water off at the mains to reduce the risk of frozen pipes bursting.

Areas that should be inspected include:

Roof

• Checked for cracked tiles
• If chimney pots are in place (if in place not but not used they suggest fitting ventilated cowls)
• Check flashings especially those around chimney stacks and abutments. Re-fix or replace where required.

Loft

• Check the insulation is in present and that there are no un-insulated areas
• To avoid tanks and pipes freezing, nenver insulate below tanks and pipes.

Gutters/drains

• Clean gulleys and gutters of leaves and debris as if they overflow they can saturate walls risking frost attack or damp ingress.
• Check for signs of leaking gutters and rainwater pipes. These are designed to carry water away from the walls and structural elements, preventing water damage,

Walls

• A third of all heat is lost through walls. Consider cavity wall insulation if not allready in place
• Check for frost damage to pointing as this can be damaged by freeze/thaw cycles of frost damage.

Windows

• Check windows to make sure water flows away from glass and doesn’t pond on the sill, or run behind it risking damp ingress.
• Double glazing can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 50%. If this is not an option due to cost, consider secondary glazing. Also remember that curtains can significantly reduce heat loss,

Doors

• Reduce draughts from letterboxes by fitting insulating covers.
• Seal the edges of external doors with insulating strips.

“These simple tasks will not only help householders keep warmer during any more harsh weather conditions, but they will significantly reduce soaring energy bills and can be undertaken safely in the home. However, it is essential to seek the advice of reputable building professionals when looking to complete larger jobs. For advice on how much to pay for home improvements, the RICS Property Makeover Guide provides a good indication on how much you should pay.”
Keith Denholm, Allied Surveyors Scotland & RICS Scotland Residential Property Professional Group Chair

Read the full story at www.rics.org