As we settle into winter, now is the time to protect your home before the cold weather starts to bite. If you have a second home in France, it’s particularly important to assess the risks when the property is vacant during the wintertime. Below are a few tips to safeguard your home against common seasonal hazards.

1. Water and plumbing – a key priority

Despite the increasing seasonal temperatures we are now experiencing, winter temperatures can still plummet causing pipes to freeze and burst with significant damage a real risk. If your property is empty for a significant amount of time, it therefore makes sense to:

§  Turn off the water supply: To eliminate the risk of burst pipes in your property, first locate and turn off the main water supply valve at the meter pit. Then, open the drain valve (often located near the meter) to ensure all residual water drains completely. This step is critical, as French regulations specify that the homeowner is responsible for all pipes located on the house side of the meter. Consider also draining water from washing machines or dishwashers. Run all taps in sinks and baths until they stop producing water otherwise the pipes could freeze and crack.

§  Antifreeze: add non-toxic antifreeze to toilet bowls and drain traps to prevent residual water from freezing. (Note! Toxic brands of Antifreeze can be lethal if consumed by humans or animals, so store carefully).

§  Heating systems: If you have a wet based central heating system and keep the water switched on, set the thermostat to a low, constant temperature (e.g. 10°C) to prevent freezing pipes without wasting energy.

§  Gutters and downpipes: Check for leaves and other debris from external gutters and downpipes to ensure proper drainage during heavy rain or melting snow.

2. Keeping your property secure

There are several ways that you can keep your property safe and secure if you are away for a lengthy period of time:

§  Lighting: use timers for a few internal lights to create the impression someone is at home.

§  Entry points: double-check all windows and doors before you leave, locking away any external tools or ladders that could aid a burglar.

§  Forward post: Arrange for the postal service to hold or forward your mail, as an overflowing box signals absence to potential intruders.

§  Security systems: nowadays smart security systems or external cameras are useful for enabling remote monitoring – and providing peace of mind.

§  Neighbours: If you have neighbours, ask a trusted person or a property management company to keep an eye on your home.

3. Preparation against the elements

A few final checks to keep your property secure in even the severest of weather.

●             Electrical: Unplug all non-essential appliances to save energy and protect against power surges (only keep vital security/heating systems plugged in).

●             Fire safety: Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries.

●             Garden and furnishings: Store away patio furniture and remove tree limbs or debris that could damage the property in high winds.

We hope that you find these tips useful.

If you would like to find out more about AXA’s home insurance cover, please get in touch. We will help secure what matters most to you.

Insurance France is the trading name of AXA Marthon. We are an English and French speaking AXA agency, taking care of your insurance so you can enjoy your life in France.

To find out more, please contact us below for a free, no-obligation quotation:

Phone: +33 (0)5 45 70 43 76

Email: agence.florentmorin@axa.fr

Website: insurancefrance.fr