It can be hard to keep up with the erratic British weather – one week we’re all wearing flip flops, and the next we’re wrapped up in scarves and gloves. It’s not just our wardrobe choices that are affected; it’s also putting our homes at risk. 

We conducted a study into what is being dubbed “Seasonal Confusion Disorder” and found that almost 40% of adults are failing to prepare for winter. Instead they are waiting for the cold weather to creep in before taking action, putting their households at risk of avoidable winter problems  such as boiler breakdowns and blocked drains. 

Even more worrying is that those who are preparing for the winter weather are doing so simply by changing their quilt (56%), or shopping for heartier food (49%).  Just 10% are cleaning out their guttering and drains, one of the many actions required to combat the dangers of winter weather. 

Following our report, we’re predicting a rise in demand for service call-outs as winter takes hold. In September alone, British Gas service and repair engineers completed a total of 250,000 repair call-outs - a 10% increase compared to the same period last year.  In preparation, we have put our fleet of 60 all-weather 4x4s on standby to access hard-to-reach customers across the country.

Television presenter and weather expert Sian Lloyd believes that this lack of preparation is alarming: “It’s clear from the research that the British public is thoroughly confused by Britain’s weather conditions, and this hasn’t been helped by such a rainy summer. This seasonal confusion is leading to the public being unprepared for the winter and putting their homes at risk.”

James Richards, British Gas Chief Meteorologist said: “As we all know the British weather is incredibly unpredictable. Just two years ago we had record high temperatures in November followed by the worst December in 350 years. Because the weather can change in a matter of days from mild to extremely cold, it’s best to prepare now.  This September we have already seen the weather change dramatically and forecasts suggest that October will remain changeable.” 

If you want further advice on preparing for the cold weather, read our top tips.