The cold snap looks set to continue but following any prolonged cold spell is a sharp thaw.

And in our first day back after the festive break, we took 1,500 calls looking for help and advice with frozen or burst pipes.

"The most common problems being reported are frozen pipes and frozen water supplies," explained Robin Slater, Property Services Manager.

"Not only that, but we've been carrying out multiple visits where pipes have thawed out and then frozen again.

"There are a number of ways that tenants can help protect themselves and their properties against burst pipes. We've put together a quick check list that should help you get through the freeze and thaw."

Top tips are:

• If you have a burst pipe immediately turn your stop cock clockwise and then contact the council's customer contact centre on 0800 678 1166 for assistance;
• During frost keep your heating on;
• If you have a loft in your home, open the hatch slightly as this will allow heat into the loft space;
• Open all internal doors into bedrooms to allow heat to circulate around the house;
• Any external pipes near ground level should be covered with old blankets;
• If you are going on a short term holiday during severe frost, keep your heating on and arrange for someone to check your house daily, and
• If you are going on a long term holiday contact your local area housing office for advice.

Robin added, "Some of these steps are really basic, however, taking this action could stop your pipes from bursting and damaging your home and its contents. A flooded home is not just an inconvenience but can be devastating if your personal belongings are damaged beyond repair."