Winter hits homes in Perthshire harder than many expect. A mix of low temperatures, damp air and the odd sharp frost can expose small weaknesses that have sat quietly all year. A little preparation now can save a lot of worry later.

Here are some simple checks that make a real difference.

1. Clear the gutters
Blocked gutters are one of the most common sources of damp patches inside a home. Leaves, moss and debris stop water flowing freely. Once water overflows it tracks down walls and can find its way into the house. Ten minutes with a ladder or a quick call to a local gutter cleaning service works wonders.

2. Check outdoor taps
A frozen outdoor tap can split pipework and flood the area once it thaws. Make sure everything is shut off and insulated. It is one of the cheapest jobs you can do and one of the most important.

3. Look over the roof from the ground
You do not need to climb up. Just stand back and look for slipped slates, missing ridge tiles or anything that looks out of line. Use binoculars if you have them. A slipped tile caught early is a cheap fix. Leave it and water can get in.

4. Test your heating before it is needed
Do not wait until the coldest night of the year to switch the heating on. Turn it on for an hour now. Make sure every radiator heats up. If something is wrong, local heating engineers are still quiet enough to help quickly.

5. Trim branches near the house
Strong winds can knock branches against roofs, gutters and windows. Keeping them clear reduces the chance of damage.

6. Look for small patches of mould
If you see any, deal with them early. A gentle clean, better ventilation or a small dehumidifier in the right place can make a big difference. Our homes can get damp in winter, so a simple routine helps.

These are small tasks, but each one prevents bigger problems. A home that is looked after little and often is a home that stays sound for many years.