Owners warned long absence may invalidate home insurance

Posted : 27-01-2006

Homeowners are being warned that leaving their houses unattended for an extended period of time may invalidate their home insurance, leaving them with a hefty bill if anything has gone wrong.

Research from Halifax Home Insurance found that almost half of home insurance policies restrict the cover offered if the policy holder is away from the property for more than 30 days, highlighting the significance of adequate home and home contents insurance.

Halifax found that more than half a million homes are left unoccupied for at least 30 consecutive days per year, but disturbingly, over 283,000 householders were unaware that their prolonged absence could invalidate potential claims, such as for theft, vandalism and water damage.

Vicky Emmott, senior underwriting manager, Halifax Home Insurance, said: "A substantial number of householders leave their property unoccupied for long periods of time. But few realise that just a four week holiday could invalidate the policy. Many insurers impose surcharges for those looking to extend their cover if they are to be away more than 30 days."

Ms Emmott added: "Halifax recommends that any householder anticipating leaving their home unoccupied for a significant period of time carefully review the terms of their policy.”

To combat the threat of burglary and damage to peoples' homes during their absence, Halifax has recommended that policyholders ensure pipes are suitably protected if you are leaving the property unattended in cold weather and suspend all deliveries to the property such as newspapers and milk, but most importantly, check their home insurance details if the property is to be unoccupied for a consecutive period of days.


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