Cold, wet weather finds the weak spots in any building. In a block of flats, one blocked gutter or burst pipe can affect several homes, so some simple preparation now can save a lot of trouble and service charge money later.
Outside the building
- Clear gutters, hoppers and drains of leaves and moss.
- Check downpipes for leaks, blockages and loose fixings.
- Have someone competent inspect flat roofs, slipped tiles and flashings. Nobody should go on a roof without the right training and equipment.
- Check paths and steps for loose slabs and areas that stay wet.
- Agree how icy paths will be handled, and who will do it.
- Trim back overhanging branches where necessary.
Inside the common parts
- Test lighting, because shared areas will be used more in the dark.
- Check that insulation on pipes in roof spaces, risers and bin stores is intact.
- Make sure boilers or plant serving the block have been serviced where needed.
- Keep hallways and stairs clear of stored items and portable heaters.
- Check that entrance doors close properly and do not let in rain.
Inside your flat
- Find your stopcock now and make sure it turns.
- Have your heating serviced, particularly if your boiler is your responsibility.
- If you are going away, make arrangements for your heating and water, and leave a contact number with someone you trust.
- Ventilate after cooking and showering to help reduce condensation.
- Avoid drying clothes on radiators where you can, and keep furniture slightly away from cold external walls.
- Do not block air vents.
- Test your smoke alarm.
Heaters and fire safety
Winter brings extra fire risks. Keep portable heaters away from curtains and furniture, do not leave them on while you sleep, and do not overload sockets. Keep fire doors shut, and report any door that does not close properly. A door that is stuck or propped open will not do its job in a fire.
If you discover a leak
- Turn off the water at the stopcock if it is safe to do so.
- Keep away from electrics if water is near them.
- Tell any neighbour who may be affected, especially the flat below.
- Report it to your managing agent, using the emergency number if it is out of hours.
- Take photos for any insurance claim.
For directors
Book gutter and roof checks in autumn rather than waiting for the first leak. Make sure contractors can get access, emergency contact details are up to date, and residents know how to report a problem. It is also worth checking the excess and escape of water terms on the buildings insurance policy, so that nobody is caught out when a claim is needed.
Finally, keep a simple record of what was checked and when. It helps with planning next year, and it can be useful evidence if an insurer or leaseholder later asks what maintenance has been done.
This guide is general information for England at 1 November 2026, not legal advice. Your lease and your building's circumstances may change how it applies to you, and the law may change after this date.