{"id":20680,"date":"2026-09-24T11:07:13","date_gmt":"2026-09-24T08:07:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/blog\/\/"},"modified":"2026-09-24T11:07:15","modified_gmt":"2026-09-24T08:07:15","slug":"how-to-winterise-a-holiday-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/blog\/how-to-winterise-a-holiday-home\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Winterise a Holiday Home"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the summer season comes to an end, simply locking the doors is not enough if a home will remain unused for a long period. Damp and moisture can develop in closed properties, low temperatures can damage plumbing, and without the necessary security measures, the home may become more exposed to external risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Especially if you own a <a href=\"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/projects\/casafabay\/\">holiday home<\/a> near the coast, carrying out comprehensive checks at the end of the season can help protect the property throughout winter and reduce the amount of maintenance required when the new season begins. In this guide, you can find the main steps to consider as part of <strong>holiday home maintenance<\/strong>, from damp prevention and plumbing protection to security and garden preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Before-You-Leave Checklist<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Final checks before leaving your holiday home can significantly reduce the risk of problems developing throughout winter. In a property that will remain unused for several months, particular attention should be paid to plumbing, damp, electricity and security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before leaving the house, you can review the following steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Remove perishable food and do not leave rubbish inside the property.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Empty and clean the refrigerator and freezer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the plumbing for leaks. If necessary, turn off the main water valve.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect pipes that may be affected by cold temperatures and do not leave water in outdoor taps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the winter settings of the boiler and heating system.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspect the roof, gutters, exterior walls and windows for damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make the necessary arrangements for air circulation in rooms that will remain closed for long periods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Move furniture slightly away from the walls and store textile products only when completely dry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unplug electrical appliances that will not be used.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check alarm systems, security cameras and outdoor lighting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Move cushions, umbrellas and garden furniture to a place where they will not be affected by rain.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review the coverage and validity period of your home insurance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inform your neighbours or property management that the house will remain empty.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask someone you trust to check the property at regular intervals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This checklist may need to be adapted according to the location of the property and local winter conditions. In a coastal holiday home, damp can become a more significant concern, while in colder regions plumbing and freezing risks may require greater attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maintenance responsibilities are also broader in a detached holiday home. Roofs, gardens, exterior walls and plumbing systems that are not maintained by a shared property management service need to be planned and checked separately by the homeowner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Preventing Damp in an Empty House<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the first things you may notice in a holiday home that has remained closed for months is stale, heavy air. Particularly in properties close to the sea, moisture can leave marks on walls, cause fabrics to develop odours and damage wooden furniture. Taking a few precautions before closing the property can reduce the likelihood of encountering damp when you return in spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Does Damp Increase When a Holiday Home Is Closed?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a home is in use, opening doors and windows naturally refreshes the indoor air. Once the property is closed, this circulation stops and moisture can no longer escape as easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the temperature difference between daytime and evening increases, small droplets of condensation may form on windows and cold walls. If this continues for a long period, mould and damp may begin to develop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ventilating the property during winter can help balance the moisture that accumulates indoors. If possible, the home should be checked periodically and, when weather conditions are suitable, opposite windows can be opened briefly to create cross-ventilation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, leaving windows permanently open or unsecured can create other risks, including rainwater entering the property, security problems and additional moisture from outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Using a Dehumidifier and Damp Barriers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the electrical system is suitable for operating equipment throughout winter, a dehumidifier may be used. When choosing a device, consider not only its price but also the size of the room and the humidity level inside the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a device that will operate for long periods, water drainage, maintenance requirements and electrical connections should be checked in advance. If a dehumidifier will operate while the home is empty, the manufacturer&#8217;s safety instructions should always be reviewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moisture may not always originate from the air inside the room. Water entering through the ground or exterior walls can also cause damp patches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If paint repeatedly bubbles, mould keeps returning or wet areas remain visible, simply cleaning the surface will not provide a permanent solution. The source of the moisture should first be identified, followed by any necessary waterproofing or damp-barrier work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Small Steps to Protect Furniture from Damp<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not leave beds, sofas or wardrobes pressed directly against walls. Leaving a few centimetres of space behind them allows air to circulate more easily, particularly around exterior-facing walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wardrobe doors and drawers can also be left slightly open rather than fully closed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure bedding, curtains, towels and cushions are completely dry before storing them. Even slightly damp textiles can develop odours or mould after spending several months inside a closed wardrobe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid tightly wrapping furniture in plastic covers as well. If protective covers are necessary, breathable fabrics are preferable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Stop Pipes Freezing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When temperatures fall below freezing, water remaining inside pipes can freeze. As frozen water expands, it places pressure on pipes and connection points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Damage may not be immediately visible but can appear as cracks or water leaks once temperatures rise again. Particularly in regions with harsh winters, precautions should be taken before leaving the property if the house will remain empty for an extended period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Draining the Water and Turning Off the Main Valve<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the property will not be used for a long time, turning off the main water valve can be considered. The taps can then be opened to allow remaining water to drain from the system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outdoor taps, garden irrigation lines, toilet cisterns and exposed pipes should also be checked separately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Garden taps and exposed pipes are more vulnerable to low temperatures than indoor plumbing. In areas where freezing temperatures occur, pipe insulation should be checked and water should not be left inside unused outdoor lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the plumbing system needs to be completely drained, the work should be carried out by a qualified plumber. If any intervention involving the boiler is required, assistance should be obtained from an authorised service provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Incorrect procedures can damage pipes, connection points or boiler components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Protecting the Boiler &amp; Heating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When setting the boiler for winter, follow the instructions provided in the appliance manual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Boilers with frost protection usually require both the electricity and gas supply to remain connected for this function to operate. However, operating conditions vary by model, so it is important to check the specifications of your own boiler before leaving the house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adding antifreeze to the heating system may initially seem like a practical solution, but it is not suitable for every system. In particular, antifreeze products designed for vehicles may damage a boiler system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For this reason, an authorised service provider should be consulted before adding any product to the heating system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The correct approach can vary from one property to another. In some homes, draining the water from the system may be sufficient, while in others the boiler may need to continue operating at a low temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The safest option should be determined according to local winter conditions and the existing condition of the plumbing system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Roof, Exterior and Structural Maintenance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inspecting the roof and exterior structure before winter rainfall begins can prevent small problems from developing into issues that damage the interior of the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Roof and Gutter Inspection<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Checking the roof before winter can prevent a minor issue from becoming more serious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Broken, cracked or displaced roof tiles should be repaired. Leaves and branches that have accumulated in gutters can also prevent water from draining properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rainwater overflowing from blocked gutters may eventually reach exterior walls or areas beneath the roof, potentially causing moisture and water leakage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Areas around chimneys, roof joints and drainage lines should also be inspected for possible leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If accessing the roof is necessary, the work should be carried out by professionals because of the associated safety risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Window, Shutter and Security Shutter Checks<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before leaving the property, check whether air is entering around window and door frames. On a windy day, drafts may even be noticeable by hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If seals have hardened, cracked or broken, they should be replaced. Otherwise, rainwater and cold air may enter the property throughout winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The rails, locks and connection points of shutters and security shutters should also be checked before closing the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shutters can protect windows from strong winds and rain. However, completely preventing airflow inside the home may increase damp problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not block ventilation openings if the property has them. If the structure of the house requires additional ventilation, choose a method that does not compromise security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Check Electrical Appliances Before Leaving<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not leave appliances plugged in if they will not be used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When unplugging devices, also check sockets for looseness, discolouration or visible damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are considering turning off the electricity completely, first identify any systems that need to continue operating, including alarms, security cameras, routers, boilers, dehumidifiers or automatic garden irrigation systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Electrical circuits for unused rooms may be switched off from the fuse box. However, if you are unsure which circuit controls which part of the property, do not make changes to the electrical panel. In this case, assistance from an electrician is safer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not leave food in the refrigerator or freezer. After cleaning them, allow the interiors to dry completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you unplug the appliances, leave the doors slightly open to reduce the likelihood of mould or unpleasant odours developing inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Store small appliances in a clean and dry cupboard. Electronic devices such as televisions should be moved away from damp areas and locations exposed to direct sunlight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Securing an Empty Home<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Empty house security<\/strong> in a detached holiday home involves more than simply locking the doors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the end of the season, check the locking systems on exterior doors, windows, balconies and, where applicable, garden entrances. For homes that will remain unused for extended periods, small measures that make the property appear less obviously empty can also be useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ensure that alarm and camera systems are functioning, notifications are being sent to the correct people and backup power options are active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Timer-controlled outdoor lighting can help reduce the appearance that the property has been empty for a long time. However, rather than using lighting at exactly the same time every day, a more natural schedule can be created.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the property will remain empty for a long period, it is also useful to review the terms of your home insurance alongside your security measures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check the policy conditions relating to periods of vacancy, natural disasters, flooding and theft. Some insurance policies may contain specific conditions for properties that remain unoccupied for a certain length of time. If necessary, request up-to-date information from your insurer or insurance agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preventing post and parcels from accumulating at the entrance can also reduce the impression that the property has been unoccupied for an extended period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If possible, arrange for the mailbox to be checked regularly or temporarily redirect deliveries to another address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Winterising the Pool &amp; Garden<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Winter preparation is not the same for every plant in the garden. Pruning periods and precautions against cold weather depend on the type of plant and the climate of the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potted plants that are sensitive to cold can be moved indoors or to a more sheltered location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Removing dry branches and leaves that could block drains can also reduce potential problems during rainy periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the automatic irrigation system will not be used during winter, simply switching it off may not be sufficient. Water remaining inside the lines should be drained and outdoor taps should be protected against freezing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before storing garden furniture, cushions, umbrellas and outdoor textiles, clean them and allow them to dry completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check the connection points of fixed furniture and make sure protective covers are secured so that they cannot come loose in strong winds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When <strong>closing a pool for winter<\/strong>, the required maintenance depends on the structure of the pool and the system being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Completely draining the water can damage the surface or plumbing in some pools. For this reason, the water level, filtration system and any protective products should be managed according to the technical specifications of the pool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are unsure about the correct procedure, you can ask the maintenance team for support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When choosing a holiday home, it may not be enough to consider only what the property offers during the summer months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its winter maintenance requirements, security options and access to professional property management can also be important in the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When comparing <a href=\"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/projects\/\">villa projects<\/a> in different locations, it is also worth considering how the property will be protected and used throughout all four seasons.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When the summer season comes to an end, simply locking the doors is not enough if a home will remain unused for a long period. Damp and moisture can develop in closed properties, low temperatures can damage plumbing, and without the necessary security measures, the home may become more exposed to external risks. Especially if [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":20681,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-20680","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20680","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20680"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20680\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20682,"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20680\/revisions\/20682"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20681"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20680"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20680"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fabaylife.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20680"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}