Theft, storm, and flooding damage are all destructive to the home but can also make an adverse impact on your peace of mind. Therefore, it can prove beneficial to ensure that you and your family feel safe all year round, by taking care of your home and its valuables.



Indeed, living in such a changeable climate, many have to learn to adapt in areas at risk of flood or storms. Therefore, it's important that you prevent or minimise the risk of flood and storm damage to your home as much as possible, from adapting basic housekeeping techniques and tips.



Firstly, ensure your home is stocked with sand bags if you live in a high risk area; in addition, perhaps consider purchasing flood protection equipment to help protect any vulnerable windows and doors - this can include covers for air bricks and other vents.



Prior planning and preparation is also important when protecting your home during poor weather conditions, so plan ahead when choosing materials to redecorate your home. Choose flood resistant materials such as ceramic tiles, and ensure electrical sockets or fitted furniture is situated above ground level where possible.



What's more, high rainfall can cause extensive water damage to your house and home. But, bi-annual clearing of debris from drains and gutters alongside regular maintenance of the roof can ensure any loose tiles or leaks are discovered. As such, this provides you with the opportunity to fix them well in advance of any potential bad weather.



Some simple steps should also be taken to protect your home from theft and burglary. First, it's important to ensure that your home appears secure and that valuables are not on display to potential thieves. Secondly, it's very important to update security measures to prevent unauthorised access into your home.



In fact, you can deter thieves with effective and visible burglar alarms. Remember to securely lock outbuildings and ladders to prevent these being used to gain access into your home. Also, ensure to close any windows and ensure that keys are not clearly visible from windows and doors.



You can also get help from friends and neighbours to make your home look occupied should you be away for any length of time. This can include simple things such as opening and closing curtains and occasionally turning on lights, which all help ensure your home does not become a target to thieves while you are away.



With these simple housekeeping and maintenance tips, you can ensure peace of mind for you and your family. Not only can you protect your possessions from theft and avoid potentially destructive natural forces, but you can also save money by checking websites which offer home insurance advice which may help in reducing claims on your home insurance this winter.