Frozen pipes? Nightmare. Make sure they're lagged, especially the ones outside, to stop them freezing and bursting. Trust us, you don't want to deal with that mess.

Book in that central heating service before you're shivering in your living room. Make sure the radiators are heating up evenly too - if they're cold at the top, bleed them to get things flowing again.

Heat rises - and escapes through your roof if you're not careful. Insulating your loft now will keep you toasty and help cut down those soaring energy bills. Double win.

While you're up there, don't forget the pipework in the loft. Insulate them properly to stop them freezing - it's one of those small jobs that can save you big later. Make sure your home insurance is up to date. If the worst does happen this winter, the last thing you want is to be caught without proper coverage.

If your pipes do burst (fingers crossed they don't), knowing where your stopcock is could save you from a waterlogged disaster. It's usually under the kitchen sink, and knowing how to turn it off could be a lifesaver.

If you've got a fireplace or wood burner, now's the time to call in the chimney sweep. You don't want any nasty blockages ruining those cosy winter nights by the fire.

Had a storm lately? Head up (or get a pro) to inspect the roof for any missing or broken tiles. Water sneaking through cracks is the last thing you need when it's freezing outside.

Leaves, twigs, and debris clogging up your gutters could spell disaster. Clear them out now before they start causing water damage to your walls.

Got branches hanging over your conservatory or garden? Don't wait for a storm to send them crashing through your roof - cut them back now while you can.

Wooden decking can suffer in winter. Give it a proper seal to stop water damage and reduce the risk of it turning into an ice rink when temperatures drop.

No one wants a chilly draft creeping in. Do a quick check on all your windows and doors for gaps - seal them up tight to keep the warmth in and your heating bill down.

Winter storms sometimes mean power outages. Be prepared - stash away torches, candles, blankets and even a couple of board games. If you work from home these days, you might also want to think about power banks and 4/5G temporary wifi kits. You'll thank yourself later.

Whether you rely on an oil tank for heating, or logs for the fire, don't leave it too late - top up your stores before prices skyrocket or, worse, before you run out mid-winter.

Winter winds can wreak havoc. Secure anything that might blow away - plant pots, bins, greenhouses. Keeping the garden clear of leaves is also smart; it stops them from turning into a slippery mess when it rains.

Drying clothes indoors? Drying clothes indoors is sometimes necessary, but it can create a damp, musty atmosphere. Keep the space ventilated and use dehumidifiers if needed. It's an art form, but you'll get the hang of it.

The sun sets early in winter, meaning you'll be hauling the bins out in the dark if you don't check your outdoor lights now. Make sure they're working, and you'll avoid an embarrassing trip and fall.

Got pricey tools or sports equipment in the shed or garage? Make sure it's all locked up tight. Winter's dark nights bring with it a spike in burglaries by opportunistic thieves. Ensure gates, fences, and doors are all secure, and consider upgrading your home security and surveilance if necessary.