Remain covered in the ‘Big Chill’
With Britain having suffered the earliest widespread November snowfall for seventeen years, and further freezing temperatures and snow expected to continue throughout the UK, it is more crucial than ever to check the small print of your home insurance and motor breakdown policies, warns moneysupermarket.com.
moneysupermarket.com advises drivers to be extra vigilant and prepared on the roads as the ‘Big Chill' continues to affect many parts of the UK through the coming weeks. According to the Met Office, temperatures are set to plummet even further while icy roads and snow will be a risk for many.
The increased risk of breakdowns and accidents caused by hazardous driving conditions on many of Britain's roads means that comprehensive motor breakdown cover is imperative for motorists braving the cold.
Steve Sweeney, head of motor insurance at moneysupermarket.com said: "In times like these it's important drivers are extra vigilant and be suitably prepared for anything that may happen on their journey. Motorists should ready themselves and their vehicles for ice and snow conditions before taking to the roads. With many drivers already affected by the adverse weather conditions and reports of people stranded in their cars in the most severely affected areas, avoiding non-essential travel is vital. 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.
"I advise people to make regular checks to their vehicles before driving to avoid being a victim of a breakdown. Taking regular precautionary measures such as checking the oil level, anti-freeze, hazard lights, and tyres for tread depth and pressure, and stowing a spare tyre are a good idea. It is also advisable to stow items such as a torch, reflective triangle sign, high-visibility jacket, first aid kit, warm clothing and jump leads should you need them in the event of an emergency."
Home is where the heart is
The freezing temperatures also mean homeowners should check the small print on their home insurance policies against the risk of freezing and burst pipes; and boiler breakdown. There are significant caveats in many policies for the cover of burst pipes while some providers offer cover against boiler breakdown with comprehensive policies for an additional premium.
Julie Owens, head of home insurance at moneysupermarket.com said: "There is no doubt homeowners would be shocked to discover burst pipes may not even be covered by their insurance. For example, you may not be covered in the event of burst pipes if a property is left unoccupied, without heat or unfurnished - typically for 30 days in a row. If you are leaving a property unoccupied, confirming your cover with your insurance provider is crucial before you leave.
"Boiler breakdown exclusions to your policy are more common place- for instance, cover is usually excluded when the Boiler is over a certain age or if there are gas leaks from any pipes or gas-fired appliances. By considering the levels of cover needed, you can safeguard against facing the frosty chill of having to pay hundred of pounds in repair damages. Speak to your provider if you are in any doubt about your levels of cover for your insurance policies and avoid getting caught out in the cold."