16/04/2025

The UK cities where homes are most at risk from cold weather

Home insurance

The effects of cold weather wreak havoc on homes across the UK, with freezing conditions causing pipes to burst, boilers to fail and damp to settle in.

We researched the UK cities most affected by cold weather issues, highlighting areas where proactive preparation is most important.

Using search data for requests for boiler repairs, help with burst pipes, damp proofing and roof repairs, the study reveals that homes in Manchester are the most vulnerable to cold with 364 monthly searches per 100,000 residents.

Cardiff followed closely as the second most affected city, with 360 searches per 100,000 residents, whilst in third place, Bristol recorded 355 searches per 100,000 residents, demonstrating that even larger cities in the south face significant challenges during the colder months.

Top 10 UK cities most prone to cold damage (monthly searches per 100,000 people)

Manchester: 364
Cardiff: 360
Bristol: 355
Plymouth: 311
Glasgow: 296
Swansea: 280
Leeds: 264
Bradford: 257
Sheffield: 238
Edinburgh: 237

The cities experiencing the most roofing issues

Cold weather often brings heavy rain, snow and freezing conditions that can wreak havoc on roofs. Damaged tiles, blocked gutters, and weakened structures can lead to leaks, water ingress, and even structural collapse if left unchecked.

Bristol faced the highest number of searches for roofing services, with 308 searches per 100,000 residents, indicating significant issues among homeowners. Cardiff followed with 291 searches per 100,000, reflecting the impact of heavy winter rainfall in the region. Plymouth came in third, with 277 searches per 100,000.

How to protect your roof

Inspect your roof for missing tiles, leaks and weak points, especially before winter hits. Address minor issues promptly to avoid them escalating during heavy rainfall or snowfall. Clearing gutters of debris ensures water flows away from your home, reducing the risk of leaks and ice dams forming on your roof. Investing in professional inspections can also uncover hidden vulnerabilities before they become major problems.

In addition to this, you should know that in order to make a home insurance claim for roof damage caused by extreme weather, your roof must be maintained in a reasonable condition with all tiles intact. Otherwise, a home insurance provider could decline any claim for any damage.

The worst cities for needing boiler repairs

Winter places immense strain on home heating systems as temperatures plummet, and boilers often struggle to cope. Glasgow recorded the highest number of searches for boiler repairs, with 100 searches per 100,000 residents, reflecting the city’s colder climate and the strain on heating systems.

Coventry followed, with 72 searches per 100,000. Hull also faced significant challenges, with 67 searches per 100,000, underlining the widespread nature of boiler related issues.

How to keep your boiler safe

Boilers are the lifeblood of a warm home. Regular servicing before the cold months is essential to ensure they operate efficiently and reliably when temperatures drop. Bleeding radiators can improve heat circulation, while checking boiler pressure ensures the system is functioning optimally.

Homeowners should also keep vents and flues clear of obstructions and consider running their boilers periodically to prevent components from seizing up during periods of low use.

To avoid being caught off guard by costly boiler repairs, ensure your home insurance policy includes coverage for heating system breakdowns.

The areas most prone to burst pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause water within pipes to expand, leading to cracks or bursts. This issue is especially common in older homes or those without adequate insulation.

Preston emerged as the city with the highest number of searches for burst pipe repairs, with 35 searches per 100,000 residents. Derby and Newcastle followed, each with 4 searches per 100,000 residents.

Preventing burst pipes

Freezing temperatures pose a significant risk to your home’s plumbing. When water freezes, it expands, which can cause cracks or bursts in pipes. This can lead to extensive flooding and costly repairs if not addressed promptly.

To reduce the risk of burst pipes, keep your home’s heating on a low setting during freezing weather, even when you’re away. Insulating both indoor and outdoor pipes can protect them from extreme temperatures, while leaving cabinet doors under sinks open helps warm air circulate around vulnerable plumbing. Ensure you know the location of your stopcock so you can quickly shut off water in case of an emergency.

If you’re leaving your home unoccupied for an extended period, consider draining the water system to eliminate freezing risks altogether.

It’s also wise to check whether your home insurance policy covers water damage caused by burst pipes, as most insurers won’t cover you if your home is unoccupied for prolonged periods of time.

The UK cities with most damp issues

Cold weather combined with increased indoor humidity creates the perfect conditions for damp and mould to thrive which can not only cause significant damage to walls, ceilings, and furniture but pose serious health risks if left untreated.

Unfortunately for residents of Belfast, the city led the list for damp proofing searches, with 51 searches per 100,000 residents. Hull followed, with 29 searches per 100,000, whilst Leeds also faced notable issues, with 24 searches per 100,000.

How to prevent damp

Damp and mould are common problems during winter, often caused by poor ventilation, leaks, or condensation. To prevent damp, start by ensuring good airflow in your home, by opening windows regularly or using extractor fans, especially in areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.

Using a dehumidifier during wetter months is a practical way to control moisture levels and reduce the risk of mould growth. If damp spots persist, consult a professional to diagnose and address the root cause before it worsens.

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our home insurance guides.

Speak to our friendly team about your home insurance needs

If you want a home insurance broker that puts service first, join the thousands of happy clients who choose Norton. Fill in your details below and our team will call you shortly.

Protect your assets with

Home Insurance

Whether your home is your castle, a three-bed semi or a sprawling farmhouse, protect it with insurance that recognises its true value. Our experienced team have access to a wide range of specialised policies so your home gets cover as unique as it is.

Gear up your defence with

Performance Car Insurance

Your performance car deserves tailored protection – and you’re in the right place for that. We’ve been specialists in this exact area for over 55 years and we’ll provide tailored cover for your exact needs.

Travel in confidence with tailored

Travel Insurance

Take the right cover with you, whether for business or pleasure. Frequent fliers and those with pre-existing medical conditions, as well as family and work groups, can all be catered for by our trusted insurance partners.

Cover that stays all year round

Holiday Home Insurance

Whether your holiday home is your own personal paradise, a holiday let for other holidaymakers, or a little bit of both, make sure it’s covered with protection that lasts all year round.

Cover your collection with

Collections Insurance

Whether you collect medals, art, cars, china and porcelain, stamps, rare antiques or something else, our dedicated team can help you arrange flexible cover that can grow alongside your collection.