Homes need a winter health check

Severe storms and strong winds are predicted to hit the UK during this month so Halifax Home Insurance is recommending that homeowners give their home a winter health check.

A spokesperson for Halifax Home Insurance said many claims could be avoided if homeowners spent a small amount of time preparing for the winter weather by doing some essential checks. According to Halifax Home Insurance, just a few simple steps could save thousands of pounds.

Checks on the inside of a property include having an annual boiler service by a CORGI certified professional. Check the loft is both insulated and ventilated and finally, a thermostat should be set to at least ten degrees to avoid pipes freezing.

Checks outside the home include ensuring that the roof doesn’t have any cracked or broken tiles. Check light fittings are secure, along with gates, sheds and garages and finally, clear drainpipes and gutters to avoid flooding.

In 2006, Halifax dealt with over 18,000 weather related insurance claims with an average claim of over £1,000. The worst affected area was Glasgow with Manchester second.

Discuss this in the Finance Markets forums

Story link: Homes need a winter health check