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December 2020

Steps for preparing yourself for winter

Steps for preparing yourself for winter 1432 1006 James Hallam

As we continue through a period of uncertainty one thing is for sure, winter is coming. The cold weather can increase the probability of major disruption and damage to your property or vehicle. We do not know how a winter with COVID-19 will look, but we can prepare ourselves, our homes and our vehicles for the season ahead. By taking the following precautions you can help to ensure you are ready for winter.

Preparing your homes

  • Regular inspections and maintenance of your property like clearing your gutters will help limit the risk of blockages.
  • Keep your boiler on during the winter months. It’s important to check your boiler is in good health by having a regular service.
  • Pre winter checks by your central heating service provider with indicate any improvements needed to the efficiency of your heating.
  • If there is a risk of flooding try to move as many possessions upstairs. If your property has been flooded do not attempt to enter the premises until the electricity has been turned off at the mains.
  • Check for carbon monoxide leaks: This is a silent killer which can easily be detected with an inexpensive test badge or battery-operated alarm.
  • Make yourself aware your stopcock in case you need to stop the water supply quickly after frozen pipes.
  • Keep updated on weather warning and Met Office reports.
  • If properties are permanently unoccupied we would suggest disconnecting water supplies and draining all pipes and heating systems. However if you are only temporarily unoccupied heating systems should remain on to maintain a consistent temperature and avoid freeing.

It goes without saying that drivers need to keep their cars in good condition throughout the year, however even more so during the winter months. Recovery firms suggest that you’re twice as likely to break down during this season, so here are some precautions you can take to minimize the risk.

Preparing your vehicle

  • Plan your route and check road conditions. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
  • Make sure your car has been serviced .
  • Check your battery. Cold weather also has a negative impact on the power a battery and if you haven’t changed your car battery recently, then it could become faulty in the cold.
  • Keep a full tank of fuel. When there is a lot of empty space in the tank moisture can start to build up, and if this can dilutes the fuel can eventually freeze.
  • Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated and don’t get below the minimum of 1.6mm. Also check your tyre pressures regularly, as these can change with a drop in air temperature.
  • Clean your exterior lights and check that all your lights and indicators are working.
  • Carry an emergency kit in case of a breakdown. This should include first aid kid, extra clothing, hi- visibility jacket, food and drink, antifreeze and windshield washer fluid, tow rope, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, warning light or road flares.

Why should you choose an insurance broker?

Why should you choose an insurance broker? 1920 1280 James Hallam

If you are thinking of buying an insurance policy for something you don’t know much about or insuring something fairly unusual you should consider using an insurance broker.  Some may think working with an insurance broker sounds time consuming or dated and it’s much easier to go online but as insurance get more complex and new risks need understanding are you confident that you are best placed to make the right insurance decisions for yourself, your family or your business?

We understand the terminology, the emerging insurance risks, the appetite insurers have for these and we work hard to understand your needs. This makes us well positioned to advise you on not only the right insurance products for you, but the right level of cover. Insurance is complicated. So why go it alone?

There are many benefits to using an insurance broker that other providers cannot offer. Read on to find out more on what an insurance broker can offer you and why you should consider contacting us before your next insurance purchase.

Advantages of using an insurance broker

Advice and Knowledge – As licensed professionals, insurance brokers have a wealth of knowledge and expertise so they can offer you excellent advice on products, how to manage risks, comparing insurance solutions and purchasing insurance. Brokers are impartial and their advice is meant to serve your interests, not the interests of a particular insurance company.

Knowing your options – Insurers won’t always offer you every type of cover when you go directly to them.  Brokers will work with you to understand your unique situation and offer you a range of pre-vetted options to choose from, meaning you can rest easy knowing you are getting the right coverage at the best price.

Find the right product for you- a broker will ask you about your personal circumstances to find you the right policy. They will be able to tell you if you are already covered by your existing insurance policies and get you a good deal by comparing prices and product features. They can also be more flexible on price than comparison sites.

Choice and Price – Dealing with a broker means you are gaining access to the best insurers, some of whom do not sell directly to the public. Insurers will sometimes offer better rates to brokerages, meaning more savings for you. Why would insurance companies offer these lower prices? Lower cover.

Find a specialist provider – Comparison sites may not offer cover that should be tailored to suit your needs. You also will not find special or bespoke cover on there, so if you want to insure something unique like a high-value antique or a collection, a broker is your best option.

Claims are dealt with – If you ever need to make an insurance claim, you can lean on your broker to help make sure you receive a fair and prompt payment. If you find yourself in a disputed claim, your broker will act as an advocate with your insurance company and do as much as possible for you so you do not have the hassle and worry.

If you are looking for insurance, contact us at James Hallam. We offer a wide range of insurance products and can help you to tailor your insurance to your precise needs.