Only 48.7% of householders surveyed say they will be undertaking special checks, or doing work on their home to ensure it is adequately prepared for the cold snap, according to research commissioned by Paymentshield.

According to the nationwide survey, homeowners in Northern Ireland topped the poll for being the best prepared to protect its houses, with 75% of respondents planning ahead for the inclement weather.

Those who live in Central England are the least prepared, with 45% of respondents planning to even check their homes for vulnerabilities. The Scots faired slightly better, with 54%, just edging out the Welsh, half of who are planning ahead.

This is despite the large number of weather related insurance claims made each winter, with Paymentshield receiving 2,357 claims during the period between December 2011 and January 2012.

In light of these statistics, Paymentshield is urging homeowners to ensure their homes are winter-proofed and to check their home insurance policies so they understand what is, and is not, covered.

“Taking steps to ensure your home is ‘winter ready’ need not be a mammoth task,” said Tim Johnson, CEO of Paymentshield. “However, now is the time to start thinking about jobs such aslagging pipes, roof repairs and clearing guttering before the bad weather really sets in.

“Homeowners should also be checking their home insurance policies to ensure they’re adequately protected and understand their cover levels. The last thing people need in the run up to the festive period is avoidable damage to their home.”