moneysupermarket.com: The big freeze

Commenting on the adverse weather conditions, Clare Francis, site editor at moneysupermarket.com, said: "As the big freeze and chaos ensues in the worst snow south east England has seen for 18 years, there are important insurance issues to be considered.

"If you are in doubt about your level of cover for any home, travel or motor policy it is important to speak to your insurer to get clarification."

moneysupermarket.com offers the following advice to those affected.

Home

In the case of home insurance there are significant caveats in many policies for the cover of burst pipes during very cold weather. Most providers cover for damage caused by pipes freezing and bursting, but are likely to have exclusions; for example if a property is left unoccupied or unfurnished - typically for 30 days in a row. Confirming this with your insurance provider is crucial.

Travel

For those travelling it is advisable to look for service updates online or seek advice on the telephone before leaving the house. Without adequate insurance, getting compensation for disrupted travel plans could be incredibly difficult. Always check the small print to see what you are and aren't covered for. Most providers will cover for delays at snowbound airports, cancellation of flights due to bad weather, and flights missed because of bad weather preventing travel to an airport.

However, if you have only recently bought insurance and plan to travel over the next few days, you may find your cover compromised due to the advanced weather warnings issued - again, checking in with your insurer here is crucial.

Motor

Motorists should ready themselves and their vehicles for ice and snow conditions before taking to the roads. In times like these it's important drivers are extra vigilant and prepared for the potential actions of less responsible road users. In the most severely affected areas, avoiding non-essential travel is vital but drivers need to think ahead about the increased risk of breakdowns and accidents caused by hazardous driving conditions if they do need to get behind the wheel.

moneysupermarket.com's top winter motoring tips:

Regularly check the oil level, anti-freeze, hazard lights and tyres for tread depth and pressure. Check the spare tyre is in good condition too.

Have the essentials in your car, such as a torch, reflective triangle sign, high-visibility jacket, first aid kit and jump leads.

Keep adequate distance from the vehicle in front and take particular care to look out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.

In cold or icy conditions, drive carefully and ensure you don't accelerate, brake or take sharp corners suddenly.