As the 'big freeze' continues across the North East without any sign of improvement, the region's rural homes and businesses are facing significant disruptions.
Senior partner at Crook-based chartered surveyors Broadley and Coulson and RICS North East rural spokesperson, David Coulson highlights his top tips to combat the adverse weather conditions and advises of potential problems.
"There are a number of ways to avoid getting into trouble during the winter months. Above all, it is imperative to put safety first.
"If you are a business owner, take the time to review your business continuity plans in order to minimise disruption and be sure to inform your customers or clients of any problems as early as possible.
"It has been well documented that people are using wireless technology to work remotely, so if working from home is an option for employees this will be safer than risking a treacherous journey to work. Speak to your IT department or provider who may be able to help more of your staff work from home.
"While the weather is an issue, be sure to check your attic for leaks as melting snow will penetrate through defective roofs. Monitoring flat roofs and those with low pitches will be beneficial as the weight of the snow can cause these to bend and worse still, collapse.
"Checking the condition of your boiler is highly recommended as it may not be very efficient. With the Government's announcement of the new boiler scrappage scheme, now could be a good time to upgrade.
"The North East roads are causing much concern, and with significant reason. Those who live near to roadsides may find that they have suffered salt damage to the front of their home due to splashing from passing traffic and the spraying of salt by gritters. This can then cause the face of the stone or bricks to weather and become porous. It is advisable to wash off the salt residue with a hose pipe to avoid any damage to the wall from salt corrosion.
"Drivers should be mindful of pot holes in the road due to the salt and there is the chance that roads have become damaged by snowploughs in some areas. For example, in the winter of 1978/1979 a lot of damage was caused by snowploughs to farmers' fences, hedges and property boundaries following heavy snowfall and huge drifts which were up to the top of the electricity poles at Crawleyside in Stanhope. I spent several weeks going around assessing damages and negotiating with the County Councils for compensation.
"In terms of homes and properties, a 'health check' is advisable once the bad weather has subsided. I recommend ensuring that once the snow has come off the roof that no loose slates or lengths of flashing have been pulled off. There is the possibility that plastic gutters have bent under the weight of icicles or frost may have split outside water and waste pipes so repairs may be required. A chartered surveyor would be able provide you with a quote for carrying out a health check."
David finishes: "Remember, take care, be sensible and don't take any unnecessary risks. This way you will have more chance of staying safe."
For more information on Broadley and Coulson visit www.broadleyandcoulson.co.uk.
ENDS
Media contact:
Michelle Oliver or Vicky Beynon
Golley Slater North East
Tel: 0191 2459020
Email: michelle.oliver@golleyslater.co.uk or victoria.beynon@golleyslater.co.uk
