Protecting listed properties during colder winter months

By Vikki Rushbrook Insurance Advisor

Snow-covered cottages on a sloping street with a snowy landscape in the background.

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Throughout winter, owners of older grade listed properties face unique challenges in maintaining and protecting their historic homes. These buildings, often rich in architectural heritage, require special care to withstand the harsh conditions of colder months. Here’s a look at how winter can affect these properties and what owners can do to safeguard them.

A snow-covered rural house with a stone facade, surrounded by frosty trees and a winding road in a winter landscape.

Potential winter hazards

Frost damage: Older buildings often have porous materials like stone and brick that can absorb moisture. When temperatures drop, this moisture can freeze and expand, causing cracks and structural damage.
Roof issues: Heavy snowfall and ice accumulation can put significant stress on roofs, leading to leaks or even collapses in extreme cases.
Damp and mould: Poor insulation and ventilation can result in damp conditions, which are exacerbated by winter weather. This can lead to mould growth, which is harmful to both the building and its occupants.
Frozen pipes: Older plumbing systems are particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures, which can cause pipes to burst and result in extensive water damage.

Protective measures

Regular inspections: Conduct thorough inspections before winter sets in. Check for any existing damage or vulnerabilities in the structure, especially in the roof, walls, and foundations.
Improve insulation: Enhance insulation in attics, walls, and around pipes to prevent heat loss and protect against freezing.
Maintain heating systems: Make sure your boiler and central heating system has had its annual service. Consider installing frost protection thermostats to keep temperatures above freezing.
Gutter and drain maintenance: Clear gutters and drains of leaves and debris to prevent blockages that can cause water to overflow and damage the building.
Weatherproofing: Apply weatherproofing treatments to exterior walls and windows to reduce moisture ingress. Use breathable materials to avoid trapping moisture inside the walls.
Roof care: Remove snow build-up from roofs safely to prevent excessive weight and potential damage. Ensure that roof tiles and slates are secure and replace any that are damaged.
Ventilation: Improve ventilation to reduce dampness and condensation. This can be achieved through the use of dehumidifiers and ensuring that air bricks and vents are not blocked.

A snowy scene with a red brick house, a lamppost, and trees. Snow covers the ground and gently falls from a cloudy sky.

Owning a listed property is a privilege that comes with the responsibility of preserving its historical integrity. By taking proactive steps to protect these buildings from the harsh winter weather, owners can ensure that their homes remain safe and sound for future generations to enjoy.

Additionally, it’s crucial to review your listed home insurance policy to understand any specific conditions that must be met to keep your cover valid, especially during winter. This may include maintaining a minimum temperature within the property to prevent pipes from freezing, or ensuring that the property is regularly inspected if left unoccupied for extended periods. Being aware of these requirements can help avoid any unpleasant surprises should you need to make a claim.

Finally, working with an insurance specialist is highly recommended, particularly for homes of historic significance. Brokers like Abode can provide tailored advice and cover options that cater to the unique needs of grade listed properties. Our expertise ensures that you have the right protection in place, giving you peace of mind throughout the winter months and beyond. To find out more read our article: Insurance brokers vs insurance companies: What’s the difference?

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Listed properties hold an important place in our national heritage. As a result, there are certain laws around the changes you can make to your home both inside and out, to help preserve the features and character that make it individual. Insuring your listed home is therefore more complex, but it is also absolutely vital.

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Protecting listed properties during colder winter months

Potential winter hazards

Protective measures

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