With the colder months upon us, harsh weather, heavy rainfall and high winds become the norm - all of which can place homes and estates at greater risk. For private clients, whose properties may include listed country houses, coastal residences, or luxury penthouses, preparation is not just about comfort, it’s about preservation.
Winter can test even the most well-built homes, and when those homes contain fine art, antiques, jewellery, or other valuable collections, the consequences of inadequate preparation can be severe. Taking a proactive approach now can help ensure your property, and everything within it, remains protected throughout the season.
From storm-force winds to frozen pipes, winter weather can be unforgiving. Estates and large properties in rural or exposed locations are particularly vulnerable.
Regular maintenance is the first line of defence. Make sure you have your roofs, gutters, and chimneys professionally inspected before the season sets in, as loose tiles or blocked drains can quickly turn minor issues into major water disasters. For country estates, check that trees near the property are properly managed; falling branches during storms can cause significant structural damage.
If your home features flat roofs, terraces, or balconies - common in modern architectural designs and penthouses - ensure drainage systems are clear and watertight. Consider having external lighting checked, especially in extensive grounds or driveways, as reduced daylight can make movement around the estate more hazardous during wet or icy conditions.
Heating, plumbing, and electrical systems should all undergo a winter service. Frozen pipes remain one of the most common - and costly - causes of household damage. Smart thermostats and automatic frost protection systems are worthwhile investments, particularly for second homes or properties left vacant for long periods.
For larger estates or homes with guest cottages, ensure staff and caretakers know how to isolate water supplies in the event of a leak. Backup generators should be serviced and tested to guarantee continuity in the event of power cuts, especially in rural areas where outages can last for hours or even days.
Beyond the structure itself, the true character of many high-value homes lies in the collections they house. Temperature and humidity fluctuations can threaten paintings, delicate antiques, and rare furniture . Ensure that key rooms - particularly galleries, libraries, dressing rooms and wine cellars - have stable environmental controls.
It’s wise to review security measures as well. Modern smart-home systems can integrate CCTV, motion sensors, and environmental alerts for humidity or flooding. In urban settings, consider remote monitoring for penthouses or properties that may be vacant over the holidays.
For fine jewellery and smaller valuables, ensure safes are fire- and water-resistant, properly installed, and ideally certified to insurance standards.
Even with the best preparation, unforeseen events can occur. This is why reviewing your insurance cover is a crucial part of winter readiness.
Many homeowners unknowingly remain underinsured, particularly those whose properties or collections have appreciated in value. Rising costs of materials and specialist craftsmanship mean that rebuilding a period property, or repairing a bespoke modern home, often exceeds original valuations.
Similarly, fine art, watches, jewellery, and antiques may have increased in market value. Without regular reappraisal, your existing policy may no longer reflect their true worth.
Working with a specialist broker who understands complex, high-value homes, can provide bespoke cover that ensures you’re fully protected against both loss and underinsurance.
Many of us travel extensively during the winter months. If your property will be unoccupied, consider having estate staff, house managers, or security teams conduct regular inspections. Smart home technology can help you monitor your property remotely, but physical oversight remains vital, with insurers often requiring evidence of occupancy or checks at defined intervals.
If the property forms part of a larger estate, ensure that all outbuildings, stables, and ancillary accommodation are included in your maintenance and insurance review.
Protecting your home in winter is about more than preventing damage, it’s about preserving passions, heritage, and the things that make your property unique. From architectural features to fine art collections, every element of a luxury home deserves specialist care and cover.
Don’t let winter risks, outdated valuations, or insufficient cover turn an irreplaceable treasure into an unrecoverable loss. Our Private Client team are here to help, with tailored advice, precise appraisals, and bespoke insurance solutions. Ensure your collection is properly covered by contacting us today.