How to prevent frozen pipes this winter (a landlord and homeowner checklist)

Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of winter plumbing emergencies. When water freezes, it expands, and a frozen pipe can split and then burst as it thaws. The good news is that most frozen-pipe problems are preventable with a little preparation.

This checklist helps you protect a home or a portfolio before the cold weather arrives.

Protect the vulnerable pipes

Cold spots in a property are where pipes freeze first. Focus on:

• Lofts, garages and unheated areas.
• External pipes and outside taps.
• Pipes in cupboards against outside walls.
• The cold water tank and cylinder.

Insulate or lag these with foam pipe insulation, and open the loft hatch or cupboard doors in cold weather to let warm air reach them.

Keep the property prepared

A few simple habits reduce the risk:

• Leave the heating on a low setting during cold spells, even if you are away.
• Insulate and, where possible, drain outdoor and garden water systems.
• Check and bleed radiators and confirm the system is working before winter.
• Know where the stopcock is so you can turn the water off quickly if needed.

For a wider seasonal routine, our London property maintenance checklist covers the checks worth doing ahead of each season.

What to do if a pipe freezes

If you suspect a pipe is frozen:

• Turn off the water at the stopcock to limit the risk of a burst.
• Thaw the pipe slowly with a hot water bottle or gentle heat from a hair dryer.
• Never use an open flame, a blowtorch or a powerful heater near a pipe.
• Open the nearest tap so the water can flow as it thaws.

If a pipe has already burst, follow our emergency guide to what to do if a pipe bursts.

Protecting a portfolio

For landlords and agents, a pre-winter check across a portfolio is time well spent. Walk each property, confirm the heating works, check insulation, and make sure the stopcock is accessible. Our guide to managing maintenance across multiple properties explains how to schedule these checks.

If you need help protecting your plumbing ahead of winter, or after a freeze, our plumbing service covers insulation advice, repairs and emergency call-outs across London.

For practical winter guidance, the Thames Water website and the Energy Saving Trust both publish advice on preventing frozen pipes.