Prepare Your Student Home for the Winter Break

If this is your first year living in rented accommodation, you might be unsure how to get your home ready for the winter holidays. As many students return to their family homes for the Christmas break, student properties are often left vacant for weeks. This makes them susceptible to issues like freezing pipes, dampness, or even security concerns.

Follow these simple steps to keep your home safe and in good condition while you're away:

Secure Your Property
It might seem obvious, but with the rush of leaving for the holidays, it’s easy to forget the basics. Double-check that all doors and windows are locked before you leave. Take valuable items like laptops or tablets with you. While crime in Bangor is generally low, burglars often target empty student homes during the break.

Unplug Electronics
Unplug non-essential electronics to reduce energy consumption and lower the risk of fire. Remember to leave your fridge freezer plugged in to avoid spoiled food disasters!

Protect Against Frozen Pipes
Vacant houses in winter are prone to frozen or burst pipes, which can lead to costly repairs. Here’s how to prevent it:

• Leave your heating on low: Setting it to around 12°C can keep the pipes warm.
• Use a timer: Set your heating to turn on during the coldest hours, such as early morning and late evening.
• Drain your pipes: In extreme cases, draining your plumbing system can minimise risks. However, ensure no water remains trapped in the system.

Clean Up Before You Leave
While not essential, tidying up before heading home will make your return far more pleasant. Vacuum, dust, and clean the bathrooms. Change your bedsheets so you have a fresh space to settle into when you’re back. Dispose of any perishable food to avoid bad smells or pests, and take out all rubbish.

These small steps will give you peace of mind while you’re away and ensure your house is ready to welcome you back after the break.

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]