Staying Warm and Prepared This Christmas: Essential Winter Tips for Homeowners, Renters and Travellers

As Christmas approaches, we are all looking forward to cosy evenings time with loved ones and hopefully a well-deserved winter break. But with colder weather settling in and many estate agents tradespeople and local services operating reduced hours over the festive period a little preparation now can make all the difference.

To help you enjoy a warm safe and stress free holiday season here are our top winter tips for homeowners’ renters landlords and anyone travelling over Christmas.

1. Keep Your Home Warm Efficiently

Staying warm does not have to mean soaring energy bills. A few simple tweaks can help keep heat inside where it belongs.

Bleed your radiators

If the tops feel cooler than the bottoms air is trapped inside. Bleeding them improves efficiency and keeps rooms warmer.

Maintain a steady temperature

Instead of turning the heating off completely set your thermostat to a constant low temperature around twelve to fifteen degrees Celsius. This helps prevent frozen pipes and avoids costly energy spikes later.

Block draughts

Doors and windows can leak surprising amounts of warm air. Draught excluders or simple sealing strips can make rooms feel instantly cosier.

Close curtains early

As soon as the sun sets shut heavy curtains to retain heat especially important for older or single glazed properties.

2. Prepare Your Property Before Agents Close

With holiday hours and limited availability from contractors it is worth checking your home is in good shape ahead of time.

Check your boiler

If you hear strange noises experience fluctuating temperatures or see an error message do not ignore it. Engineers are extremely busy at this time of year.

Know your emergency contacts

Before offices close make sure you have:

• Your property manager or landlords emergency number
• Local emergency trades including plumbers and electricians
• Building management or concierge details if applicable

Inspect outdoor areas

Winter weather can create hazards so take a quick look outside.

• Secure loose garden furniture
• Clear gutters if safe and accessible
• Insulate outdoor taps to prevent freezing

3. Travelling Over Christmas

Whether you are away for a weekend or several weeks a little preparation gives peace of mind.

Set your heating to away mode. This prevents frozen pipes and reduces the risk of damp.

Turn off non-essential appliances, unplug kettles toasters and electronics to minimise fire risk and save energy.

Ask someone to check in. A neighbour friend or family member popping by can spot issues early especially during extreme weather.

Double check security. Lock windows and doors and make sure no valuables are visible from outside.

4. For Landlords Winter Maintenance Essentials

Christmas can be a challenging time for tenants if problems arise. A simple seasonal check helps prevent emergencies.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• Share emergency contact numbers with tenants
• Pre book boiler servicing if it is due
• Confirm that outdoor lighting is working as days are shorter

Happy tenants mean fewer urgent calls during the holidays.

 5. Looking After Yourself Simple Comfort Tips

Winter can feel long and chilly so do not forget to care for yourself too.

• Keep cosy blankets within reach
• Enjoy warm hearty meals
• Stock up on essentials in case of icy conditions
• Get fresh air during daylight to boost mood and energy

6. Our Holiday Opening Hours

Our office will be closed from

23^rd December 2025 – 5^th January 2026

During this period please use our emergency contact number for urgent property issues. All non-urgent enquiries will be handled once we reopen.

Wishing You a Warm and Wonderful Christmas

From everyone at Parkes Estates we hope your festive season is relaxing, comfortable and filled with joy. Preparing your home now ensures a smooth stress-free Christmas so you can focus on what truly matters.

If you need any support or advice before the break, we are here to help.