Archive for the ‘Home Improvement’ Category
Leave burglars out in the cold
Sunday, November 22nd, 2009In a bid to assist people in protecting themselves from ‘distraction burglars’ a national campaign has been launched. The campaign is primarily targeted at older generations and students.
A distraction burglary is carried out by criminals who deceive their victims into letting them into their homes. It is thought that this is often achieved by them posing as utility company employees. According to the Home Office, approximately 9,000 distraction burglaries occur per annum.
Home Office Minister, Alan Campbell, commented: “Burglary has fallen 54 per cent since 1997 but we know crimes like this could face upward pressure during a recession, which is why we have taken action with a £15 million package of support for the most vulnerable areas and communities.
“But it is vital people remember to check the identity of any stranger who calls at their home, genuine callers will not mind waiting. Help and support is available from the police, local authorities, and utility companies so please make sure you use it.”
The police advise people to take the following three precautions:
· Ensure that doors remain locked, and that a door chain is used to keep ‘doorstep visitors’ out.
· Carefully check identification, and ensure that the telephone number is that of the company in question by looking it up in the yellow pages or by calling directory enquiries.
· Sign up for a free personal password from utilities suppliers, and be sure to use it.
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Homeowners who would like to make some home improvements in order to increase security in and around their homes, and who are looking for finance to do so, could consider a secured loan for home improvements. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for home improvements could allow the borrower to invest in a range of safety features and deterrents. For example, weak doors and windows could be replaced with modern counterparts – complete with strong locks. Furthermore, the homeowner may wish to put up a high fence or wall around the perimeters of the property in order to prevent clear views in and to act as an obstacle to entry. Gravel driveways, closed circuit television, burglar alarms and exterior lighting could also be considered.
October saw house prices rise by 1.2 percent
Thursday, November 12th, 2009According to the Halifax House Price Index, there was a 1.2 percent increase in property prices in October, which marked the fourth consecutive monthly rise. With regard to the average UK house price, the Index shows that this has risen by 2.9 percent since December of last year. However, it was found that property prices were 4.7 percent lower in October on an annual basis.
The Index highlights the fact that house prices have been forced upwards due to higher demand and supply shortages. With the recent rise in demand for housing, combined with the low number of available properties, property prices have increased during the past few months.
Further findings show that reduced interest rates have in turn lowered mortgage repayments, with monthly repayments being accountable for an estimated 21.5 percent of average gross household income for existing mortgage borrowers in October of this year. This represents the lowest proportion since mid 2004, with a notable peak of 26.9 percent in October of last year.
Finally, the Index also revealed that the number of mortgages approved for the purpose of purchasing a property increased in September, for the tenth consecutive month on a seasonally adjusted basis. In fact, approvals were reported to be 68 percent higher than in September 2008, but 44 percent lower than in September 2007.
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Homeowners who have just moved into a new property, but do not have the funds required to make essential updates or to put their personal stamp on it, could consider taking out a secured loan. A secured loan for home improvements could allow the borrower to embark upon an array of projects in and around their new property. For example, if the roof happens to be in a state of disrepair, this could be replaced along with any draughty doors and windows. Additional living space could also be funded with a secured loan for home improvements, by means of an extension or conservatory, and the house could be completely re-decorated to suit the borrower’s tastes.
Break a leg!
Tuesday, November 10th, 2009According to new research by esure travel insurance, virtually 2.8 million people will be taking to the ski slopes this winter. This marks a 50 percent rise on the figure recorded last year, yet 12 percent of respondents admitted that they would not be purchasing travel insurance prior to skiing or snowboarding. It would seem that 3 percent of those questioned are under the false impression that their European Health Insurance Card will suffice.
Findings revealed that 7 percent of British skiers have been involved in an accident on the slopes during a winter break. Such an accident can be costly. It is reported that being carried from the slopes on a blood-wagon costs in the region on £200, and being airlifted in a helicopter costs approximately £1,500. Furthermore, repatriation expenses stand at around £4,000 from Europe and £8,000 from the USA or Canada.
esure travel insurance highlights the fact that there is a growing interest in ‘high-adrenaline sports’ and experiencing new activities such as ice-lake diving, off-piste snowboarding and bobsleighing. Moreover, it was found that 34 percent of UK adults would embark upon such adventures without ensuring that their travel insurance is adequate. It would seem that 13 percent believe that all available activities at ski resorts are covered as standard, however this is not always the case.
Head of Travel Insurance at esure, Mike Pickard, commented: “It doesn’t matter whether you’re a novice or perfectly at home on the black runs, accidents do happen on the slopes and it’s crucial to make sure you’re fully covered with quality insurance that includes specific winter sports cover.
“Always check the small print before booking your skiing holiday and be mindful of any exclusions – particularly if you’re tempted by more extreme winter sports. Call your insurer if you’re not clear on what you’re covered for otherwise you may have to foot a hefty medical bill if you were injured.”
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Homeowners who have decided against going away this winter, perhaps in order to commence projects around the home, and who are looking for the finances to do so, could consider taking out a secured loan. A secured loan for home improvements could allow the borrower to re-decorate or even renovate a property. For example, where extra living space is desired, an extension could be built or attic space could be converted. In addition, a secured loan for home improvements could also fund the replacement of any draughty doors or windows in preparation for the cold months ahead.
As dark evenings set in, light is shed on security
Wednesday, November 4th, 2009Now that the clocks have been put back and we are experiencing darker evenings, Confused.com has offered homeowners some advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of opportunistic thefts.
Firstly, make sure that valuables can not be seen by thieves – keep them out of sight from those outside by using blinds or net curtains if possible. Secondly, ensure that doors and windows are fitted with effective locks and that they are always utilised. Thirdly, invest in a burglar alarm and install it in a prominent position as this should then act as a deterrent. Furthermore, be sure to switch the alarm on whenever the property is empty. Fourthly, do not leave items such as ladders in locations that could assist thieves – lock them away. Finally, check that the limits of specified items within insurance policies are adequate.
Head of home insurance at Confused.com, Darren Black, commented: ‘Burglaries increase during winter months with many homeowners across the country falling victim. Whilst home insurance will cover homeowners financially, it cannot account for the loss of items with sentimental value. For that reason, people need to take steps which will deter any would-be thieves in the area. A few simple steps can go a long way in reducing the risk of your home becoming a target. The harder you make it for the opportunistic thief, the more likely they are to move on.’
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Homeowners who would like to increase the level of security in and around their property, and who are looking for the funds to do so, could consider a secured loan for home improvements. One of many finance options available, a secured loan could be used for an array of purposes such as replacing weak doors and windows with stronger modern counterparts. In addition, a fence or wall could be introduced around the parameters of the property to pose an obstacle for would-be thieves, and to obstruct views into the property. Gravel driveways could also be considered as they can be off-putting to thieves who like to move quietly. A secured loan could also be used to finance external lighting, closed circuit television and burglar alarms.
