Pipes freeze where there is no heat: lofts, garages, outbuildings and outside taps. Foam lagging costs a few pounds a metre and is the single most useful thing you can do before winter. Lag the cold water tank too, but not underneath it, so warmth from the house can rise into it.

If you are away, leave the heating on a low setting rather than off altogether. If a pipe does freeze, turn off the internal stop tap and thaw it slowly with a hot water bottle or towels soaked in warm water. Never use a blowtorch or a heat gun.

If a pipe bursts, close the stop tap, open the cold taps to drain the system, and call a plumber. Pipes inside your home are your responsibility, but we will always help you find the leak.