Burst pipe claims growing in cold weather

By Marianne Straker, Fri 8 Jan 2010 - Published in Home Insurance

Homeowners should take steps to protect their properties during the current cold snap which is blighting the UK, it has been recommended.

Halifax Home Insurance revealed that there has been an increase in claims for burst pipes recently, growing from 11 per cent of the total in early December to 16 per cent in the past two weeks.

Martyn Foulds, a senior claims advisor with the company, said: "The average cost to repair damage caused by a burst pipe is around Ł2000, so it is worth ensuring the home is properly insured, taking steps to prevent frozen pipes."

The firm recommended that homeowners insulate their water pipes, loft and water tank to reduce the risk of bursting, while a frost protection thermostat can be used with many boilers.

People should also ensure they know where the mains stop tap is located so they can cut the water off in an emergency.

Last month, Greg Gladwell, director of household claims at Aviva, said people should ask a friend to check their homes for water damage if they are going away for any length of time.

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