A method for preparing an HVDC cable for jointing or termination includes the step of providing a section of an HVDC cable comprising a conductor surrounded by a first semiconducting layer, and at least one insulation layer of a first polymer material surrounding the first semiconducting layer, where the insulation layer comprises conductive volatile by-products. A tape of a second polymer material is provided, where the additional layer comprises conductive volatile by-products. The tape is lapped onto the insulation layer thereby forming an additional layer. Heat is applied to crosslink the additional layer and redistribute the conductive volatile by-products.