Winter maintenance guide for your Holiday Home
Nowadays, holiday homes are designed with durable materials requiring minimal exterior upkeep, but exposure to the elements can still take its toll over time. To help protect your holiday home during the colder months, here are some key tips to consider for your holiday home winter maintenance:
Exterior care
Over time, dirt and grime is likely to accumulate on the exterior of your holiday home, creating a surface where moisture lingers, potentially accelerating wear and tear. Giving your holiday home a thorough clean - by hand or, to save time, with a pressure washer - goes a long way to prevent this. Please also ensure you’re following Park Rules when using a hosepipe.
Roof and guttering
Moss, fallen leaves and other debris can collect on the roof and in gutters, encouraging damp, and leading to blockages that may cause water damage. Keeping gutters clear ensures rainwater drains efficiently, reducing the risk of leaks or structural issues. Regular checks and removal of debris are recommended to maintain proper drainage year-round.
Securing against adverse weather
Strong winds and storms are more common in winter, so it's essential to check that your holiday home is securely anchored. Inspect any chains for rust and wear, and report any significant faults to your Park’s reception team.
Keeping the underside clear
To allow for proper airflow and easy access for maintenance / engineering work, the area beneath your holiday home must remain free of clutter at all times, as defined within our Park Rules. Only your external storage box should be stored here. Remove any leaves, branches, or debris to prevent moisture build-up, which can contribute to damp issues over time. Storing personal belongings under the unit is typically not recommended—check your park’s guidelines for permitted storage solutions.
Window maintenance
Windows play an important role in keeping your holiday home insulated and protected from the elements, providing they are kept in good working order. Check that seals and locks are intact, as damage can lead to water ingress during wet weather, and window alarms are functional. If any windows are loose or faulty, replacing them before winter sets in will help prevent further damage.
Gas and electric precautions
For safety and energy efficiency, we strongly advise isolating gas and electricity supplies when your holiday home is unoccupied over the winter months. This involves switching off electricity at the main trip switch, and shutting off the gas supply at the meter or gas bottles. If you're unsure how to do this, please ask a member of our Reception team who will be able to provide guidance.
Note: If you plan to leave your central heating on ‘frost settings’, both gas and electricity will need to remain connected in order for it to run.
Managing condensation
Cold weather often leads to condensation build-up, which can result in damp and mould if not kept on top of. Many holiday homeowners use a range of products including dehumidifier crystals, moisture traps or salt bowls to absorb excess moisture and help maintain a dry interior. These simple steps can make a big difference in keeping your holiday home fresh and well-preserved over the winter.
By following these winter maintenance tips, you can help to ensure your holiday home remains in great condition, ready to enjoy over the warmer months.
Holiday Home Winter Maintenance Checklist: Essential steps to prepare your caravan for winter
Before leaving your holiday home for the final time this season, it’s important to take a few key precautions to help protect it from damage during the colder months, and ensure a smooth return in the spring:
Winter preparation checklist
Arrange a professional drain-down.
To prevent potential frost damage, consider having your holiday home’s water system professionally drained.
Unplug electrical appliances.
Disconnect all electrical devices, including large white goods, to reduce the risk of electrical faults while the caravan is unoccupied.
Protect soft furnishings.
Remove bedding, clothing, and soft furnishings where possible, or store them in a way that allows air to circulate, helping to prevent damp and mould.
Improve airflow.
Leave internal doors and cupboards open and pull drawers out slightly to encourage ventilation throughout the caravan.
Secure valuables.
Either remove valuable items or store them out of sight. Keeping curtains open can deter potential thieves by showing that no valuables have been left inside.
Empty and clean fridges and freezers.
Defrost and clean all fridges and freezers, leaving them switched off with doors slightly ajar to prevent mould and odours. Don’t forget to drain any ice or chilled water dispensers.
Check external vents.
Ensure vents are free from obstructions to allow proper airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
Remove food items.
Any food left behind can attract rodents and other pests, so it’s best to clear out all foodstuffs before winter.
Secure doors and windows.
Double-check that all external windows and doors are properly closed and locked.
Maintain locks and hinges.
Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly to door hinges and window locks can help keep them in good working condition, making reopening them easier in spring.
By following these steps - and, in particular, arranging a professional drain-down - you can help ensure your holiday home stays in great condition over the winter months. It’s also a good idea to review your insurance policy to understand how your provider handles claims for burst pipes or water damage during the colder season. Taking these precautions will give you peace of mind, knowing your holiday home will be ready and waiting for your return in the spring!
