One of these days, Britain will thaw and it'll finally be safe to venture out without Michelin-man style winter woollies. When that happens, it'll be time to check how your home and garden fared in the freezing temperatures and to decide what repairs are needed.

Remember practical-minded homeowners may be able to tackle smaller jobs, but if you need to replace guttering or roof tiles or may need to use a cement mixer, then it's worth seeking the help of a professional builder. Avoid those rogues keen to cheat a vulnerable customer by visiting www.fmb.org.uk/findabuilder to find a reputable builder in your area.

Freezing temperatures will have found the flaws in your home and garden, so check:

• Is your roof still in a good state? Waterstains on your ceiling are a likely sign of a leaking roof, but after the freezing weather it's worth checking your roof for loose, cracked or missing tiles, lifted lead flashing or cracked rendering. These could cause water to seep or be blown inside the house. If you need to replace guttering or roof tiles, then it's worth seeking the help of a professional builder. Search www.fmb.org.uk/findabuilder to find one in your area.
• Detached gutters and blocked drains? Melting snow and rain can drip onto gutter brackets causing them to crack, rust or break. Re-attach gutters and downpipes as soon as possible to avoid water dripping down walls and causing damp patches. Also make sure gutters and drains are unblocked.
• Burst or cracked pipes? If freezing temperatures cracked any pipes in the housework, it's worth checking that the rest of the pipework is intact and get it well lagged to avoid them freezing again.
• Whistling windows and doors? If you are feeling draughts, now is the time to insulate your windows, doors and other areas where outside air can get in. Your builder can help you make your home feel warmer by filling in the gaps between windows and doors, known as 'caulking' and weather-stripping.
• Cracks and potholes in the driveway or patio? Cracks and potholes can form when a driveway or patio freezes then thaws. These need repairing as soon as you notice them to avoid further deterioration. Talk through the project with a local builder.
• Time to get out in the garden? The garden, which looked like a Christmas card two weeks ago, may now have broken or damaged tree branches or house a leaning or broken fence. The roof of an outbuilding or shed could well have developed leaks. Check thoroughly and if they need, fix them now.