Home maintenance in December

After the leaves fall, blocked gutters overflow down the walls and cause damp inside. Clear them once the trees are bare.

A burst pipe in the loft is one of the most expensive winter claims. Lag exposed pipes, cover outside taps and know where your stopcock is.

Winter evenings and holidays are peak time for break-ins. Anti snap cylinders on front and back doors are a quick upgrade.

Black mould in corners and behind furniture is usually condensation, sometimes a leak or rising damp. Find the cause before treating the walls.