Cornwall's Atlantic-facing coastline makes it one of the most storm-exposed regions in England. For second-home owners, winter preparation is not optional. It is essential.
Understanding Cornwall's storm risk
Cornwall receives some of the highest wind speeds recorded in England during Atlantic storm events. Properties on the north coast, from Bude to St Ives, face the direct force of storms that have crossed thousands of miles of open ocean. Even south coast properties, typically more sheltered, can be significantly affected by the worst events.
Storm damage to Cornwall second homes most commonly takes the form of roofing damage, loss of ridge tiles, damaged or blocked guttering, broken or compromised windows and external damage to garden structures, sheds and outbuildings.
Autumn preparation: the most important time of year
The period from September to November is the most important maintenance window for Cornwall second homes. This is when the preparation for winter should be completed before the first serious Atlantic storms arrive.
Key autumn preparation tasks include:
- Gutter clearing: Blocked guttering during heavy rainfall leads to water tracking back into walls and roof structures. Clear all gutters and downpipes before winter.
- Roof inspection: Check for any lifted, cracked or missing tiles. Address any minor issues before they become storm-failure points.
- External joinery: Check all external doors and windows for secure fitting and good condition weatherstripping.
- Garden and external structures: Secure or store any garden furniture, ornaments or loose external items. Check boundary fences and gates for structural integrity.
- Heating system service: Ensure the boiler is serviced and functioning reliably before the winter period.
- Drainage check: Clear any debris from drainage channels, surface water drains and soakaways.
- What to Do if Your Alarm Activates
Storm response: when you cannot be there
Following a significant storm, the most important thing is a prompt property check. Minor damage left unaddressed deteriorates rapidly in subsequent weather events. A roof tile that has shifted needs temporary securing before the next storm arrives. A compromised window needs emergency boarding before the next rainfall.
The Cornwall Office conducts storm checks on all member properties following any significant weather event as standard. If damage is identified, we take immediate protective action and report to you with recommendations for permanent repair.
Winter heating: the single most important decision
The question of whether to maintain heating in an unoccupied Cornwall property during winter is one of the most consequential decisions a second-home owner makes each year. The answer, in almost all circumstances, is yes.
The cost of maintaining a property at a minimum temperature of 10°C throughout the winter is modest. The cost of a burst pipe, including water damage, contractor emergency rates, insurance excess and potential claim disputes, is many multiples of this. The calculation is straightforward.