Boligfritid.dk is a Danish magazine for homeowners. This English version is written for international residents in Denmark. Read the original in Danish.
Updated 23 October 2026. A summer house that stands empty over the winter is exposed to frost, damp, mice and burglary. By closing it down thoroughly in the autumn, you avoid the most expensive surprises in the spring. Here is the checklist.
The checklist
1. Water and drains
- Turn off the main stopcock, and drain the pipes by opening all the taps, including outdoor ones.
- Empty the toilet cistern, and pour antifreeze into the toilet, floor drains and traps, so the water does not freeze and crack them.
- Drain the water heater and any outdoor hoses and water butts.
- See also protecting water pipes from frost.
2. Heating and damp
- Consider keeping the house frost-free with low heating. Check what your insurance requires if you shut down completely.
- Leave interior doors and cupboards open so the air can circulate and damp does not build up.
- A dehumidifier can keep damp and mould down in houses with damp problems.
3. Electricity and kitchen
- Switch off everything that does not need to run, e.g. the fridge, freezer and water heater.
- Empty the fridge and freezer, wipe them out, and leave the doors open so they do not go mouldy.
- Unplug appliances in case of lightning and power surges.
4. Pests and food
- Remove all food, and store dry goods in airtight containers.
- Check the house for holes where mice can get in, e.g. around pipe openings.
- Set traps if needed, and check them when you are there.
5. Outside
- Clear leaves from gutters and downpipes.
- Check the roof and chimney for loose tiles or damage.
- Put garden furniture, cushions, barbecue and parasols under cover.
- Cut back branches that could fall on the roof in a storm.
6. Security
- Close and lock windows and doors, and remove valuables.
- Ask a neighbour or the caretaker to keep an eye on the house, or use remote monitoring of temperature and humidity.
- Check your insurance so you know what it requires in terms of closing down and inspection.
7. Wood-burning stove and chimney
- Empty the ash, and close the damper once the stove is completely cold.
- Book a chimney sweep if it has been a long time.
- If you bought the summer house recently, check the rules for older wood-burning stoves. Read about the wood-burning stove rules.
When you come back
Air the house out thoroughly, turn the water on slowly, and check pipes and joints for leaks. Look for signs of mice and damp before you turn on the heating.
The garden and the house at home
Many of the autumn jobs apply at home too: clean the gutters, protect outdoor taps from frost and put the garden furniture under cover. See what to do in the garden month by month in our garden calendar (in Danish).
Read more
- Protecting water pipes from frost: avoid burst pipes
- Wood-burning stoves: rules when buying a home and good tips for lighting a fire
- Building permits: special rules for summer houses
This checklist is for general guidance only. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installations and your insurance terms.