Thursday, November 26, 2009
Category:
Property
As poor weather conditions sweep the nation, Halifax Home Insurance has offered homeowners some tips for protecting their properties from the elements.
Martyn Foulds, Senior Claims Manager at Halifax, commented: "We are advising homeowners who are at risk to take steps now to reduce the risk of damage to their homes, and to monitor local news and weather regularly to keep updated on the conditions."
Halifax Home Insurance claims data shows that a typical home insurance claim, as a result of damage caused by a storm, is approximately £1,000. Furthermore, it has been revealed that a claim for flood damage can often reach in excess of £20,000.
Homeowners whose properties are at risk of flooding are advised to take the following action:
- Position sandbags outside doorways, airbricks and windows to minimise the flow of water into the property.
- Switch off the water, gas and electricity at the mains.
- Ensure that electrical equipment is unplugged and stored as high up as possible.
- In order to avoid damage to pipes, disconnect any that lead to washing machines, cookers or dishwashers.
- Re-locate as much furniture as possible upstairs.
- Weigh down any bulky items that can not be taken upstairs, to prevent them from floating around and causing additional damage.
- If furniture can not be moved upstairs, move any contents to a high position.
- Protect rugs and curtains by taking them upstairs, or draping them over curtain poles.
- Ensure that home insurance details are accessible just in case a claim needs to be made.
- Be sure to store priceless items of sentimental value in a safe place, as these can not be replaced.
Homeowners whose properties are at risk of being damaged by storms are advised to take the following action:
- Ensure that any potentially perilous belongings, such as garden furniture and barbeques, and doors to outbuildings are secure.
- Be sure to cut back any low hanging branches to avoid them causing damage.
- Remove any debris from gutters and drain pipes to minimise the possibility of a blockage.
- Ensure that any external light fittings are secure.
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Homeowners who feel that their property is in need of a little tender loving care could consider taking out a secured loan for home improvements. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for
home improvements could allow the borrower to embark upon a range of projects in and around the home. Leaky roofs, windows or doors could be replaced to make the property watertight and to improve heat retention. Furthermore, borrowers may also wish to completely re-decorate their home in order to create their ideal living space. A secured loan for home improvements could allow homeowners to extend, creating more space if required.
