UK homeowners pay up rather than complain

Posted : 21-09-2005

Almost half of all homeowners who suffer damage to their property caused by their neighbours are paying for the repairs themselves, or claiming on their own home insurance, according to research by Tesco Home Insurance.

The study revealed that three out of four people who sorted out the damage to their property themselves did so in the knowledge that their neighbours should be actually bear the responsibility.

This may be down to the stereotypical British reaction that one "mustn't fuss", or perhaps asking those responsible for the damage means a confrontation with the "Victor Meldrew" living next door.

Nevertheless, Tesco's research shows that almost a quarter of those afflicted end up footing a bill in excess of £500, either from their insurer or out of their own pocket.

Allan Burns, head of Tesco Home Insurance, comments: "It would seem that the great British aversion to complaining is alive and well, despite the fact it might cost them financially.

"However, it’s heart-warming to know that some avoid the confrontation route because they think so much of the people living next door."

However, often confrontation is not avoided anyway, as many insurers may contact neighbours in an effort to recoup what they have paid out.

Therefore shopping around for cheaper home and home contents insurance is a step all homeowners should consider, especially if they are having problems with "them next door".

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