{"id":37582,"date":"2022-10-05T09:23:54","date_gmt":"2022-10-05T08:23:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dream-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/?p=37582"},"modified":"2026-03-12T13:19:27","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T13:19:27","slug":"preparing-your-holiday-let-for-winter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dream-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/preparing-your-holiday-let-for-winter\/","title":{"rendered":"Preparing Your Holiday Let For Winter"},"content":{"rendered":"

The colder months are now in full swing so it’s important to take some steps in preparing your holiday let for winter. You may be wondering how to stop your pipes from freezing?<\/p>\n

To help ensure your property can withstand any harsh weather, below are some maintenance tips from Dream Cottages.<\/a><\/p>\n

Read our guide to reducing the likelihood of any unfortunate events, giving you a trouble free winter.<\/p>\n

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Preparing your holiday let for winter<\/h2>\n

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First and foremost, it is important to keep the cold out! Keeping your property warm will reduce the risk of burst pipes which can cause devastating water damage.<\/p>\n

Leave the heating on throughout the property, setting it at a minimum temperature in case of an extremely cold spell.<\/p>\n

Draft proofing your holiday let is also an effective way of saving on your energy bills and it’s fairly easy to do. Pay extra attention to windows and doors making sure that any gaps are concealed.<\/p>\n

Adding extra insulation to your attic will help retain heat as well as covering any exposed outside pipes to prevent them from freezing.<\/p>\n

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Gutters<\/h2>\n

Now all the leaves have fallen from the trees, it is a good idea to check your guttering isn\u2019t clogged. Soggy leaves and other debris can block the water flow allowing it to build up in the guttering.<\/p>\n

Heavy rainfall may cause your gutter to overflow and the water to pool back into your roof leading to further problems.<\/p>\n

Clearing your gutters isn\u2019t a particularly tricky job but can help protect your windows, doors and external walls from water damage.<\/p>\n

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Hazards<\/h2>\n

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It\u2019s really important that you ensure your property, and its surroundings are fit to survive the winter weather.<\/p>\n

Loose roof tiles and large branches can become a major problem in strong winds. These can cause damage to your own property as well as others nearby.<\/p>\n

A quick check around the outside of your holiday let can reduce the chance of hazards occurring.<\/p>\n

Pathways can become slippery in icy conditions so ensuring that these are well maintained and clear of leaves will help avoid an accident happening.<\/p>\n

Supply salt at your property for guests to use on the ground in case of freezing temperatures.<\/p>\n

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Security<\/h2>\n

With guest occupancy being at its lowest in the winter months, your holiday let may be vacant more often. It is important to make sure that all your windows and doors are locked and secure. <\/span><\/p>\n

Timer and motion sensor lighting is an effective way of discouraging people from approaching your property. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Also, if possible, have someone visit once or twice a month to check the property over.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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A Warm Welcome<\/h2>\n

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If you are having guests stay this winter, ensure they receive a warm welcome. Providing extra blankets and logs for the fire will guarantee a cosy stay.<\/p>\n