Heading Home for Christmas? Keep Your Student House Safe

If you’re living in rented accommodation for the first time, you might be wondering how to get your place ready before heading home for the holidays. Many students leave their houses empty for several weeks over Christmas, which can lead to problems like frozen pipes, damp, or even security risks.

Here are some simple steps to make sure your home stays safe and in good condition while you’re away:

Lock Up and Secure Your Space
It sounds obvious, but in the rush to leave, it’s easy to forget the basics. Double-check that all doors and windows are locked. Take valuables such as laptops and tablets with you. While Bangor is generally safe, empty student houses can attract opportunistic burglars during the break.

Unplug Unnecessary Electronics
Switch off and unplug anything you don’t need running while you’re away. This saves energy and reduces fire risk. Just remember to keep your fridge freezer plugged in to avoid spoiled food disasters!

Prevent Frozen Pipes
Cold weather and empty homes can lead to burst pipes—a costly headache. Here’s how to avoid it:

• Keep the heating on low: Around 12°C is enough to stop pipes freezing.
• Use a timer: Set the heating to come on during the coldest times, like early mornings and evenings.
• Drain the system (optional): If you’re away for a long time and temperatures are extreme, draining your pipes can help. Just make sure no water is left trapped.

Tidy Up Before You Go
Coming back to a clean home makes life easier. Do a quick vacuum, wipe surfaces, and clean the bathroom. Change your bedding so you return to a fresh space. Throw out perishable food and take out the rubbish to avoid bad smells or pests.

Check Bin Collection Dates
Leaving rubbish behind can attract pests. Make sure bins are emptied before you leave and check local collection schedules so you don’t miss a pickup.

Taking these steps will give you peace of mind while you’re away and make your return much more pleasant. A little preparation now can save you from big problems later!

If you are unsure about anything or have already left your property for the Christmas break, feel free to contact our Bangor student lettingss team to assist you.
Telephone – 01248 35 35 44
Email – [email protected]