29 January 2025
Summary:By preparing early and making small changes, you can enjoy a safe, warm, and comfortable season.
As winter sets in, cold weather can bring challenges for your home and well-being. We’re here to support you with practical advice and useful resources to help you stay safe and comfortable this season. Below are some essential tips and links to our helpful guides.
- Prepare for Bad Weather
Winter weather can be unpredictable, bringing snow, ice, and cold snaps. Be proactive by:
- Check your heating: Ensure your boiler is working properly. If you’re experiencing issues, report them immediately.
- Seal draughts: Use draught excluders, rolled-up towels, or weatherstripping to block gaps around windows and doors.
- Layer up: Wear warm clothes indoors and use blankets to stay cosy without overusing your heating.
If you’re struggling with heating costs, visit our guide on Help with Money and Bills During Winter.
2. Financial Support with Heating Costs
Energy bills can be a strain, especially during a cold snap. Here are resources and advice to help:
- Understand your options: Learn about grants, benefits, and schemes to reduce energy costs.
- Budget wisely: Small changes, like turning your thermostat down by 1°C or using energy-efficient appliances, can save money.
- Reach out for help: Don’t wait to ask for support. Explore our Help with Money and Bills During Winter page for tailored advice.
- If Your Heating Fails
In extreme cold, a heating breakdown can be urgent. Here’s how to act quickly:
- Report the issue immediately: Contact your designated gas contractor, which can be found here.
- Stay warm in the meantime: Use portable heaters, hot water bottles, and layers of clothing to keep warm.
- Close off unused rooms: Focus on heating the most used spaces to conserve heat.
Visit our guide on Common Home Repairs for more information.
- Prevent and Address Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can disrupt your heating and water supply. Prevent them by:
- Keeping your home warm: Maintain a minimum temperature, even when you’re out.
- Insulating pipes: Use foam pipe lagging to protect exposed pipes.
- Running taps occasionally: Let a small trickle of water flow to prevent freezing.
If you suspect frozen pipes, don’t wait. Follow our step-by-step guide on How to Deal with Frozen Pipes.
- Tackling Damp and Mould
Cold and damp conditions can lead to mould growth, which can affect your health. Minimize damp by:
- Ventilating your home: Open windows or use extractor fans when cooking or showering.
- Wiping condensation: Use a cloth to remove moisture from windows and walls.
- Using a dehumidifier: This can help reduce humidity in the air.
If you’re experiencing issues, refer to our guide Dealing with Damp and Mould.
- If you need extra support
We may deal more urgently with some repairs for vulnerable residents. Examples of residents who might be vulnerable include (but are not limited to) people who have:
- Learning disabilities
- Served time in prison
- Mental health problems
- A physical disability or impairment
Call us on 0203 535 3535 if you have support needs we should take into account.
If you need assistance this winter, we are here to help. Whether it’s advice on managing your home, financial support, or urgent repairs, don’t hesitate to contact us. Visit our Support and Advice page for more information.