Property expert Sarah Beeny has issued a stern warning to homeowners about ignoring minor home maintenance tasks this winter, warning they could escalate into costly problems if not dealt with quickly.

The savvy businesswoman and TV presenter pointed out that seemingly insignificant issues “may seem like minor inconveniences, but if left unchecked, they can damage your wallet.”

She explained: “I have encountered many situations where small problems turned into much bigger problems because they were not resolved in time. »

It comes as research from HomeServe shows the average cost of leaving such jobs unattended equates to £646 on average.

Ms Beeny pointed out common oversights, such as ignoring blocked gutters: “For example, something as simple as not clearing blocked gutters can lead to water overflowing outside the building , which eventually causes damp spots inside the house.”

She also noted cases where ignoring a minor draft resulted in significant heat loss over time, resulting in a less comfortable living environment and higher heating costs.

Stressing the importance of regular maintenance, Ms Beeny said tackling certain tasks “can make a big difference”.

She recommended: “Cleaning your gutters is one of the most important things, it helps prevent water damage. Bleeding radiators is another quick job that keeps your heating system running efficiently.

“And don’t forget to protect windows and doors from drafts to keep heat in. If you have exposed pipes indoors or outdoors, insulating them is a good idea to prevent them from freezing.”

By following these simple steps, Ms. Beeny ensures that households can maintain a comfortable home during the colder months without incurring unnecessary expenses.

The real estate expert has teamed up with HomeServe to offer the best advice on home maintenance. According to a survey sponsored by HomeServe, almost half (42%) of UK homeowners tend to put home repairs on the back burner, particularly during the winter months.

The Opinium study, which surveyed more than 1,200 homeowners, found that problems such as blocked gutters, drafty doors or windows, burnt out light bulbs and faulty toilets are routinely ignored.

Ms Beeny highlighted how these household maintenance tasks could be carried out inexpensively, noting: “You can pick up door draft excluders or pipe insulation for a few pounds at your local DIY store.

“The key is to stay on top of these stains, because the longer they sit, the more expensive they could become to repair.”

Here are five suggestions from Ms. Beeny for simple solutions at home:

1. Clear clogged gutters: This problem can lead to moisture leaks and even structural damage.
2. Replace burnt out bulbs: Keeping a home well lit is essential for safety.
3. Bleed the radiators: This may be necessary if the radiators are not heating properly.
4. Fix leaking faucets: Replacing a worn washer or valve is often a quick job that can prevent further damage and save money in the long run.
5. Seal drafty windows and doors: Self-adhesive strips can be added to windows and doors to help keep a home warm and prevent heat loss.