Start with problems you already know: recurring leaks, slow drainage, heating breakdowns or difficult access. Put the exact location and defect on your list. That gives a contractor a clearer job than a standard checklist with no property details.
1. Check the building envelope and rainwater routes
Arrange suitable checks of roof coverings, flashings, gutters, downpipes and drains. Note visible damage, signs of overflowing water, blockages and places requiring specialist access. Clearing leaves will not itself fix a damaged joint, so list both jobs if necessary.
The Met Office includes roof condition and gutter leaf build-up in its advice on preparing a property for winter. Use an appropriate contractor with safe access for high-level work. Do not use this checklist as an instruction to climb onto your roof.
2. Review heating and vulnerable pipework
Check when heating was serviced, what faults remain and how its schedule is set. Identify rooms that will stand empty and pipes or equipment exposed to cold. Ask for technical advice before choosing protective measures or changing settings.
Make sure someone knows where equipment information is kept and who receives reports of leaks or heating loss. If you are closing the property for a holiday, decide settings around the building’s needs rather than turning everything off.
3. Plan pedestrian and vehicle access
Look at entrances, steps, slopes, loading areas and places where water gathers. Check that lighting works and arrange repairs to defects that people may struggle to see on darker days.
If gritting or other snow and ice treatment is needed, agree which routes are covered, what materials will be used and who acts when conditions require it. Decide how paths will be checked and closures communicated; buying grit alone leaves those questions unanswered.
4. Prepare external areas and weather checks
Identify loose outdoor items, broken fencing and concerns about vegetation. Arrange specialist advice where required and deal with the resulting work before poor weather makes the area difficult to reach.
Choose who watches the weather warnings and checks exposed areas afterwards. Report new damage from a safe position. If a hazard needs immediate action, use the appropriate response rather than waiting for a planned maintenance visit.
5. Confirm closure and escalation arrangements
Before leaving the building empty or lightly occupied, confirm who has access, who can make decisions and how to report a problem to any agreed contractor. Keep important service details and known defects available.
Mark completed jobs and explain anything still outstanding, including temporary arrangements. Check that photographs and visit reports identify the actual item or area, so you can tell what has been examined.
Common questions
When should winter preparation start?
Begin early enough to investigate problems, order materials and arrange repairs before the weather you are preparing for. Your known defects and access arrangements determine the lead time.
Does a winter visit include gritting?
Do not assume it does. Gritting must be specifically agreed, including the areas covered and when someone attends; a scheduled property check is a different instruction.
Does clearing gutters resolve every leak?
No. Clearance removes a blockage, while damaged roof materials or joints may still need repair. Describe leaks that return so their cause can be investigated.
Related work and guidance
Find help through Seasonal Maintenance, Roofing, Grounds and External Maintenance and Minor Works. Read how maintenance timing is decided, or send your winter repair requirements.
