Chilly word of warning

HOUSEHOLDERS can minimise their exposure to weather damage this winter by following a number of routine precautions, says AA Insurance.

These include clearing gutters, sealing draughts, storing garden furniture inside, checking for loose slates and roof tiles and ensuring that outside taps do not drip. When the bad weather arrives, the AA suggests the loft door is left open to let warm air into the roof cavity, where pipes and water tanks are vulnerable.