Home Sweet Home: Tips to help avoid potential damage to your home in winter

As a homeowner, your house is a place of comfort and security. This is especially felt during winter, when staying indoors to keep warm and cozy becomes more attractive than going out. However, the season also presents a unique set of challenges as the season comes with unpredictable weather that can be tough on your house. But, with proactive measures, you can protect your home and enjoy the season stress-free.

Here are a couple of tips ahead of the winter season to ensure the contents of your home are protected.

Tip 1: Protect your electronics against power surges

Load-shedding will persist in the foreseeable future. According to Eskom, stage 2 power cuts is a high-probable scenario for this winter. Electronics remain susceptible to power surges due to power cuts. Invest in electrical surge protection to protect your appliances.

Tip 2: Secure your home against burglaries

As daylight diminishes earlier in winter, homes become more susceptible to burglaries. Criminals exploit vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for backup power, outdoor lighting, and robust security measures. Regular home maintenance, including checking that security or surveillance cameras are working is paramount.

Tip 3: Conduct regular maintenance checks

Schedule regular inspections of your home’s wiring, plumbing, and structural integrity to prevent potential hazards. Occasional extreme cold spells can still pose risks such as damaged water pipes. When temperatures drop, pipes can freeze and burst, causing significant damage to your plumbing system and leaving you without a reliable water source.
Address any issues promptly to minimize the risk of damage or accidents that could impact your insurance coverage.

Tip 4: Review your insurance cover regularly

Ensure that you have appropriate insurance coverage for your home and its contents. Regularly review your insurance policy and consult your insurer or broker to ensure that you are adequately covered.

By tackling these common winter issues, you not only ensure the safety and comfort of your home, but also save on potential costly repairs.