The RICS winter property checklist includes:
Roof
Inspect the roof and replace any cracked tiles
If chimney pots are in place but not in-use consider protecting them, by fitting ventilated cowls
Loft
Check the insulation is in good condition (up to current standard)
Avoid over insulating. It is important that the tanks and pipes in the loft do not freeze, so do not insulate below the tank
Make sure the lid is on the cold-water tank.
Gutters and drains
Clear them of leaves and debris. Take particular care that the gulleys are clear
Overflowing gutters can drench walls and cause damage
Insulate external drain pipes (eg those for central heating) with waterproof tape or similar material
Walls
33% of heat lost in the home is through the walls. Cavity wall insulation is a good option and can boost its value and saleability while reducing your energy bills
Check the pointing - frost can play havoc with poorly maintained walls
Make sure water can run off the building; fill gaps to cement angle fillets at wall junctions
Consider fitting reflective foil behind radiators on outside walls
External paving
In very cold weather water on paving will freeze
Ensure the paving is well drained and avoid water collecting, freezing and causing accidents.
Decking
Check that it hasn't obstructed air bricks and gulleys
Windows
Check perimeters of all windows to make sure water flows away from glass and doesn't collect on the sill, or drain behind it
It is important to minimize draughts. If double-glazing is not in place (it cuts heat loss through windows by 50 percent), consider fitting cheaper options such as secondary glazing or put polythene across the window frames
Curtains can make a big difference to heat loss. Consider thermally insulated curtains for windows and the outside doors
Doors
Stop draughts through letterboxes by fitting a cover and put a sealant around the door frames
Floors
Fill gaps between exposed floor boards
If there are stripped floors in place consider putting down rugs in the winter to reduce draughts up between the boards
Ensure central heating pipework in the ventilated floor voids is insulated (70% of the heat input may be lost if uninsulated)
Chimney
Have wood and coal burning flues swept
Fit chimney balloons in open flues
Boilers
Have your boiler serviced
If you have a condensing boiler, insulate the external condensate and ensure it is of the correct bore
Consider fitting a trace heater to prevent the boiler from freezing
