Getting the building ready for winter: the October checklist

Winter breakdowns are conceived in autumn. One afternoon's inspection, every October, is the most profitable maintenance of the year.

Water and roof

• Gutters and drains clear of leaves: October's first downpour finds the drain blocked, and the leak is served.
• A look at the roof (or a photo from a drone or the top floor): shifted tiles, open joints.
• Draining and checking the irrigation system if there is one (frost).

Central heating (where there is one)

Boiler service BEFORE switch-on, bleeding the communal radiators, and the switch-on date announced in advance (internal rule or building custom).

Lighting and access

• With fewer daylight hours, the timers on the outdoor lighting need resetting.
• Check the emergency lighting and the door entry system (damp punishes outdoor panels).

The small big details

• A draught excluder on the entrance door (comfort and savings).
• Salt or de-icer in the store cupboard if your area freezes.
• The on-call plumber's or heating engineer's contact visible to everybody.

Why October

In November and December the trades are swamped and charging emergency rates. The same inspection in October is cheaper, calmer — and it arrives before the breakdown does.