Home insurance firm LV= has issued property owners with advice on how to avoid damage and costly repairs to their homes as the cold snap begins to thaw.
The company has advised households to inform neighbours where the stopcock is located in their house.
According to the firm, should a pipe burst when houses are unoccupied each hour of water pouring through the house could cost thousands of pounds.
The firm has urged people to ensure pipes are not frozen and to thaw out any which are by using hot water bottles or cloths dipped in hot water.
Household damage to heating systems is a particular worry for elderly people who are significantly affected by colder weather conditions.
The burden of dealing with unexpected costs could be eased with schemes such as equity release which allow homeowners to boost their income with funds drawn against the value of their homes.
John O’Roarke, managing director of LV= home insurance, said: "With temperatures expected to rise at the weekend, homeowners can take a few simple steps to ensure their home isn’t damaged as the snow and ice thaws out giving way to wet weather."
