Homeowners should check that their property is ready for winter in order to avoid unnecessary stress, an insurance provider has warned.

According to Legal & General, the Met Office's warning of possibly frequent cold snaps should lead homeowners to check out maintenance issues such as the condition of loft insulation, the lagging of pipes and tanks, dripping taps and the condition of the heating system.

Additional issues that could cause problems might be blocked drains or gutters, loose roof tiles, gaps in window panes and the pruning or stability of trees close to the house.

"With the average house in England and Wales now costing more than £200,000 it makes sense to check the upkeep of our homes, ahead of the assault from the elements properties are likely to face over the next few months," said Andy Dawson, operations director at Legal & General's general insurance business.

"Our homes are probably the most valuable financial asset we own and regular maintenance will help to ensure that a property reflects its true market value."

Many people find that adding new windows to a house can both increase its value and make maintenance easier, at the same time as providing insulation against cold weather.

Click here for a selection of double glazed windows from Safestyle.

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Author:  Joanne McCabe