'Burst pipes can damage homes and businesses'

Britons could find themselves liable for more than a home insurance claim should the cold weather lead to burst pipes.

Insurance firm Direct Line has revealed an increase in claims of a third from burst pipes and other water damage during the first part of January this year.

As well as potentially affecting thousands of householders, water damage could also adversely impact on business properties, which are necessary for firms to conduct their work.

"Most business property policies will cover claims for water damage, but the time and income lost to the reparation work can have a significant impact on any business, so it's a situation that is best avoided where possible," commented Kate Syred, head of Direct Line for Business.

The firm urges Britons to protect against burst pipes by making sure they are well insulated and the heating is kept on low at all times during cold weather.

Earlier findings showed that household claims rose by 60 per cent over the festive period of 2009-10 as a result of the freezing conditions.

Insurer Axa revealed that in the memorable winter of 2008-09, more homes claimed for damage caused by escape of water than for fire or theft.

Britons can help guard against damage by following simple steps such as knowing where stopcocks are and how to turn them off. Following a leak, consumers should contact their insurance provider.

Meanwhile, the cold weather has also been shown to be resulting in increased number of car insurance claims being made to provider Swiftcover, which reported a 75 per cent increase during the freezing winter.

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The views expressed within the article are entirely those of Adfero Ltd and are not those of the BGL Group