When temperatures drop below zero, homes are at higher risk of frozen pipes, boiler breakdowns, and water damage. As a tenant, there are simple but important steps you can take to protect the property, avoid emergencies, and keep yourself safe and warm.
This guide explains how to prevent freezing, what to do in common scenarios, and when to contact your landlord or managing agent.
Why Freezing Is a Problem
- Frozen pipes can burst and cause serious water damage
- Boilers and heating systems can fail in extreme cold
- Repairs can be disruptive and expensive
- Loss of heating and water can make a property unsafe
Prevention is always easier than dealing with an emergency.
Everyday Steps to Prevent Freezing
1. Keep the Heating On (Even When You’re Out)
- Set your heating to come on regularly
- A minimum of 15°C is usually recommended
- Avoid turning the heating off completely during cold spells
2. Allow Air to Circulate
- Keep internal doors open where possible
- Open cupboard doors under sinks to let warm air reach pipes
3. Know Where the Stopcock Is
- Locate the main water stopcock in your property
- Make sure it turns easily
- This is vital if a pipe freezes or bursts
4. Report Issues Early
- Tell your landlord/agent immediately if:
- The heating isn’t working properly
- You notice leaks, damp patches, or unusual noises
- Radiators aren’t heating up fully
Scenario Guidance
Scenario 1: You’re Going Away During Sub‑Zero Weather
What to do:
- Leave the heating on low (do not turn it off)
- Ask a friend or neighbour to check the property if possible
- Do not drain systems unless instructed by your landlord
Why it matters:
An empty, unheated property can freeze very quickly.
Scenario 2: No Water from Taps
Possible cause: Frozen pipes
What to do:
- Check if all taps are affected or just one
- Keep the heating on
- Open the affected tap slightly
- Do not use boiling water or naked flames
- Contact your landlord or agent straight away
Scenario 3: A Pipe Has Burst or Is Leaking
Immediate steps:
- Turn off the stopcock
- Turn off the heating system if safe to do so
- Catch or contain leaking water if possible
- Contact your landlord/agent as an emergency
Do not attempt repairs yourself.
Scenario 4: Boiler Stops Working
What to check first:
- Thermostat settings
- Power supply
- Boiler pressure (if you know how)
If still not working:
- Contact your landlord or managing agent immediately
- Use alternative safe heating methods only (never use BBQs or gas cookers indoors)
Scenario 5: Condensation and Mould Appearing
Cold weather increases condensation.
What helps:
- Ventilate rooms daily (even briefly)
- Use extractor fans
- Keep heating consistent
- Dry clothes with ventilation where possible
Report persistent mould to your landlord.
What Tenants Should NOT Do
- Do not turn heating off completely in freezing weather
- Do not use open flames to thaw pipes
- Do not ignore small leaks
- Do not carry out DIY plumbing repairs
When to Contact Your Landlord or Agent
You should contact them immediately if:
- There is no heating or hot water
- Pipes are frozen, leaking, or burst
- The boiler has stopped working
- You’re unsure what to do in an emergency
Early reporting helps prevent bigger problems.
Final Thoughts
Sub‑zero temperatures can be challenging, but a few preventative steps can make a huge difference. By keeping the heating on, staying alert to early signs of freezing, and reporting issues promptly, tenants can help protect the property and avoid stressful emergencies.
If in doubt — always ask. It’s better to raise a concern early than deal with major damage later.
