Protect your home and car this winter
As we head further into the winter months, Brits are urged to check the small print of their home insurance and car breakdown policies to ensure they are covered for winter conditions and breakdowns, warns MoneySupermarket.com.
The comparison site advises drivers to be extra vigilant and prepared on the roads as colder weather brings potentially difficult driving conditions. Motorists should be prepared for the increased risk of breakdowns and accidents caused by more hazardous driving conditions, meaning that comprehensive car breakdown cover is imperative. MoneySupermarket found UK breakdown cover is available from as little as £28.50 a year with The Green Insurance Company and £28.85 a year with Kwikfit. These policies include features such as roadside repair and recovery to the nearest garage or any UK destination, alternative travel and accommodation costs.
Pete Harrison, insurance expert at MoneySupermarket.com said: "As the weather gets colder, it's important drivers are extra vigilant and suitably prepared for the conditions before getting behind the wheel. Motorists should ready themselves and their vehicles for ice and snow before taking to the roads, as well as thinking ahead about the increased risk of breakdowns and accidents caused by the hazardous conditions.
"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. 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 cold temperatures also mean Brits should check the small print of their home insurance policies to see if cover is provided for freezing and burst pipes, as well as boiler breakdown. Digging deep will reveal significant caveats in many policies for the cover of burst pipes, and some providers charge an additional premium for cover against boiler breakdown
Peter Harrison continued: "Homeowners will be shocked to discover burst pipes may not 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 example, 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 hundreds of pounds to 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."