Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Category:
Home Improvements
With the festive period behind us, many people may now be planning a New Year break.
However, Aviva is warning homeowners that there was a 500 percent increase in frozen pipe claims last Christmas and New Year. The plummeting temperatures experienced in January 2009 resulted in a rising number of claims for water-damaged homes – primarily caused by burst pipes and tanks positioned in attics.
Homeowners are reminded that a single burst pipe in the attic can cause water to gush through a property, which can ruin furnishings and belongings, and can even cause ceilings to come down. Furthermore, when such an incident occurs whilst homeowners are away, it is possible for it to remain undiscovered for several days.
Director of household claims at Aviva, Greg Gladwell, said: "Last winter we had some of the iciest temperatures in years and for some a relaxing Christmas break was ruined as they returned to a drenched home. Because it is quite rare to have such cold snaps many homeowners forget that freezing and burst pipes can be a real problem - in some cases ruining entire floors of your home. The risk can be worse in traditional properties without modern heating systems or properly insulated pipes.
"And when homes are left empty, burst or leaking pipes often aren't discovered for many days and so damage can get progressively worse.
"So be particularly aware if you are planning a week in the sun or on the slopes for Christmas or New Year. The problem starts when the thaw begins so make sure you have someone who can check on your home regularly and in particular when temperatures start to rise again, that way any leaks can be spotted early and stopped.
"And remember to leave keep your central heating on low so that warm air can circulate throughout the house."
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Homeowners who feel their property is not adequately equipped to withstand the elements could consider taking out a secured loan to rectify any areas of concern. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for
home improvements could be used to replace a draughty, leaky roof to make a property watertight and to improve heat retention. In addition, an ineffective central heating system could be replaced with a new and improved version in order to turn a cold house into a warm and welcoming home.
