Insurance comparison site Confused.com has been warning its customers about a nasty problem they may have due to the colder weather. It isn't burst water pipes for a change...

...it's rats!

They have suggested that the rodents may start entering houses to escape the winter cold . They have suggested that home-owners block off any small holes in the walls and brickwork and keep external and garage doors closed as much as possible. Broken drain covers around the home can also pose a risk as rats could enter the house via the sewerage system. It might also be worth noting that rats can chew through cables leading to electrical issues and even a fire risk. For those with infestations, their insurance company may be able to help by paying for rat catchers and repairs.

Research from moneysupermarket.com has found that home-owners are putting their DIY skills to good use in the winter weather. 41% had taken energy efficient measures in their home, such as insulation and draught excluders, while another 39% would do so if they could receive financial assistance. Just 19% said that they didn't believe their home could be made more energy efficient or they just couldn't be bothered to do so.

The website has offered a number of measures people can take to keep the heat in and save money at the same time. These include turning the thermostat down slightly, not using standby, insulating, heating only the rooms you use, keeping curtains closed, using energy saving light bulbs and excluding draughts where possible using kits available at DIY stores.

The Chief Executive of the Home Retail Group, which includes Homebase, has said that the DIY side of their business had benefited from lower mortgage payments due to low interest rates.