7 November 2026 · 1 min read · By the Plumbees team
Cold weather finds weak points. A pipe that has been slowly corroding, a joint that was never quite right or an uninsulated tank in the loft is far more likely to fail in winter. A short checklist in autumn makes a real difference.
Inside the property
- Find your stopcock and make sure it turns. Tell everyone in the household where it is.
- Insulate pipes and tanks in the loft, cellar, garage and any unheated spaces
- Fix dripping taps and weeping joints now, before they freeze or worsen
- Check under sinks and around toilets for signs of damp
- Make sure isolation valves on basins, toilets and appliances work
Outside
- Turn off and drain outside taps, and fit insulating covers
- Disconnect hoses
- Clear gutters and gullies, as blocked drains can cause overflow and ice
- Check external pipes, including overflow pipes, for damage
If you will be away
Ask someone to check the property regularly, or turn the water off at the stopcock and drain the system. Read our guide on preparing your plumbing before you go away.
For landlords
- Tell tenants how to find the stopcock and who to contact in an emergency
- Ask tenants to report leaks or frozen pipes immediately
- Inspect empty properties during cold spells
Know who to call
Save a plumber's number in your phone before you need it. Our emergency plumber page explains how we handle urgent requests. Read more about how to stop pipes freezing, or get a quote for any repairs you want done before the cold sets in.