Insurer reports increase in burst pipe claims

As the UK shivers under icy conditions, Lloyds TSB Insurance is issuing a stark warning to unprepared homeowners.

The insurer has already seen a 15 per cent increase in burst pipe claims and expects this figure to rise further as the cold spell continues.

Without adequate insurance burst pipes can be expensive, with claims costing £1400 on average; while a recent claim met by Lloyds TSB Insurance topped £40,000.

The insurer has released the following advice to help homeowners shield their property from the cold weather and avoid unnecessary damage;

Locate your stopcock, gas valve and ball valves, to ensure you know where they are and can access them easily if a problem occurs

Insulate outside stand pipes, taps, lag pipes and tanks in your loft

Keep drain gratings, gutters and down pipes free of leaves and debris

Have heating appliances serviced and chimneys swept regularly

Store a torch with spare batteries in a safe and accessible place, with a list of telephone numbers such as a plumber, heating engineer, glazier, electrician and roofing contractor

If you are going away on holiday, set your heating to come on for a short time each day to avoid pipes freezing

If leaving the house unoccupied for an extended period, lift the loft hatch open a few inches to allow warm air to circulate and reduce the risk of water pipes and tanks freezing

Remember to notify your insurance provider if leaving your house unoccupied for more than 30 consecutive days, as this may affect your cover

If a leak is detected, make sure that the water source is isolated quickly. If the damage warrants making a claim, contact your insurer promptly.

Keep contact details of your insurance provider to hand in case the worst happens. If you are away, consider giving your insurance details to a trusted neighbour or relative. Some insurers, like Lloyds TSB, give you helpline numbers to make a claim or to call for 24 hour emergency assistance.
Phil Loney, managing director, Lloyds TSB Insurance, said: "After last year's comparatively mild winter, it's no surprise that so many homeowners have been caught unprepared by the cold snap. A little bit of preparation now could save you from having to deal with escaping water from burst pipes or a broken boiler. To give yourself peace of mind, make sure you have adequate insurance which will cover you if the icy conditions take their toll on your home."