Frozen pipes could cost homeowners dear

Homeowners across the South West are being warned that a winter cold snap and frozen or burst pipes could have huge financial implications and cause thousands of pounds worth of damage.

With snow and blizzard-like conditions sweeping much of the country, Cornish Mutual, the region’s only general insurance firm, is urging people to take some precautionary measures against the weather in a bid to avoid a costly mistake.

In common with other insurers, the company, which serves thousands of Members across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset, suffered losses from burst pipes in January and February this year when snow falls hit the West Country – in many cases these losses were down to insufficient insulation.

In January this year alone, Cornish Mutual handled over 50 claims relating to burst pipes, escaped water or damage to home or contents as a direct result of the cold snap – claims totalled more than a staggering £223,400.

“Many people think carefully about their home security and making sure their contents are looked after, but quite often, not about their pipe work or heating unless they have a specific problem,” says Mitch Portman from Cornish Mutual.

“I think generally it’s a case of out-of-sight, out-of-mind and often people don’t think about insulating their pipes or water tank which is usually hidden in their loft. Burst pipes or heating problems can be very costly, but also very stressful and upsetting if personal possessions are damaged in the process.”

He adds, “Earlier this year, we did see an increase in claims and this was down to a drop in temperatures, but of course, it’s not expected to be an isolated event – we could experience the same cold weather early in the New Year.”

Cornish Mutual, which has offices in Exeter and Truro, is now offering some advice and tips to avoid frozen or burst pipes this winter:

If the building is left unoccupied for a period of time, turn off the water supply and drain any tanks, pipes or heating systems to ensure there is no water in them to freeze

If you’re going away this winter, get friends or relatives to keep an eye on your property

If the building is occupied throughout the winter then adequate loft insulation is needed, with appropriate lagging on pipes and any water tanks in the loft space. Not only will this help to avoid water damage to your home, it will also keep the heat in the parts of the house where you need it and cut down on heating bills

Insulate your loft if possible – keep your home warm and keep more of the valuable heat in

And check your home and contents insurance policy is up to date and that you are covered for the full value of your contents

Cornish Mutual offers home building and contents insurance and covers repair or replacement (new-for-old) for most possessions in the home, that are damaged or lost as a result of a long, pre-agreed list of events or dangers. Home insurance cover includes loss of oil or water, for example, if a pipe bursts. Public liability cover is also included as standard.