Is your yard winter ready?
Are you prepared for the Winter weather? As we head into the midst of the winter months our team of equestrians have pulled together some key advice for preparing for winter and minimising risk.
Check Roofs
Static units and shipping containers, commonly used as tack and feed rooms, are more likely to be affected by water damage given the flat nature of their roof. Most building insurance policies will require flat roofs to have regular maintenance, and evidence of them being checked at least once every 2-years. Now is the time to head up the ladder and check the roof before the weather turns bad.
Clear Gutters
Check gutters and drains to ensure they are free from blockages. Having clear drains is a great means of risk mitigation. Make sure they are cleaned regularly and allowing the water to flow away.
Electrical Checks
With a lot of equestrian buildings of a timber construction they are more susceptible to fire damage. Regular electrical maintenance is recommended to minimise the risk of electrical fires, that can be exacerbated by storm damage.
Insulate
Prevent taps and pipes from freezing, but adding layers of insulation. This not only prevents the hassle of not having any running water, but also mitigates against pipes bursting and causing flood damage.
Remove Loose Branches
Check around your property for any loose or low branches that may fall during storms and damage fencing or buildings. Now is a good time to get out with a saw and remove and deadwood and reduce the risk of damage, or escaping horses.
Know Where Things Are
Know where to turn the stopcock off. Know how to isolate electrics. Locate the trusty torch. Knowledge is power.
Mitigating the risk is key but should the worst happen ensure you have adequate cover for your investment with specialist equestrian property insurance. Specialist cover is available for your home and your horse’s home too. A standard household policy is not designed for the non-standard nature of an equestrian property and therefore tends to only offer limited protection.
Equestrian policy wording is tailored and designed to take into account that the horses are the main residents of the property. In the event of items such as show jumps, feed, hay, bedding and tack being damaged or stolen, the financial consequences could be disastrous if adequate cover is not held – not to mention the inconvenience, so by using a specific equestrian insurer you can have peace of mind that your equestrian lifestyle is protected.
Don’t let the great British weather rain on your parade this year – protect your hard work, your investment and minimise the risk where possible.