As the clocks prepare to fall back this Sunday, home insurance specialists are issuing an urgent warning to households across Britain. The annual shift to Greenwich Mean Time brings not just darker evenings but a dramatic spike in home insurance claims, leaving many families facing financial devastation.
The Dark Nights Danger
Experts at Howden Insurance have uncovered a disturbing trend: burglary claims surge by a staggering 30% during the darker winter months. The combination of longer nights and visible Christmas presents creates a perfect storm for opportunistic thieves.
Five Critical Checks You Must Complete This Weekend
1. Security Lighting Assessment
With darkness falling during peak commuting hours, ensure your security lighting is fully functional. Motion-activated lights are particularly effective at deterring intruders and preventing potential policy voids.
2. Alarm System Verification
Test your burglar alarm thoroughly. Many policies become invalid if security systems specified in your contract aren't in working order when a claim occurs.
3. Drainage and Gutter Clearance
Autumn leaves can block gutters and drains within hours, leading to devastating water damage that many homeowners mistakenly believe their policy covers. Clear them now to prevent expensive repairs.
4. Heating System Maintenance
Frozen pipes cause thousands of pounds of damage each winter. Ensure your heating system is serviced and lagging is intact to avoid being denied a claim for preventable damage.
5. Boundary Security Review
Check fences, gates, and outdoor buildings are secure. Insurers may reject claims if access points were left vulnerable, effectively inviting burglars onto your property.
The Fine Print That Could Cost You Thousands
Sarah Page, Howden's UK Retail CEO, emphasises the danger: "Many homeowners don't realise their policy requires specific security measures. If you've mentioned deadlocks on certain windows but they're not engaged during a burglary, your claim could be rejected entirely."
The financial impact is severe. The average burglary claim now exceeds £3,000, while water damage claims can reach £15,000 or more. With winter approaching, taking thirty minutes this weekend to complete these checks could save both your home and your financial security.
