UK homeowners may be unknowingly putting their home insurance at risk with common garden additions. As summer approaches, many are eager to spruce up their gardens, but certain DIY projects could potentially invalidate your policy.
The Risk of Underinsurance
Households spend significant amounts on insurance, and the last thing anyone wants is for that money to go to waste. With around 70% of UK homes thought to be underinsured, failing to declare garden features could lead to reduced payouts or rejected claims.
Ian Wilson, home insurance expert at Tiger.co.uk, has revealed five seemingly innocent garden features that could impact your insurance policy. He said: "Additions like kids' play equipment and storage units, or even quick DIY jobs, might feel like minor changes, but if they're not declared or installed well, they could lead to complications when making a claim."
Garden Rooms and Outbuildings
Permanent structures such as outdoor offices and summer houses fitted with heating or plumbing must be declared to your insurer. They may not be covered if left undisclosed and can increase the cost of rebuilding your home if it sustains damage. They also heighten the risk of fire or theft.
Sheds and Storage Structures
Sheds and storage units can affect your cover, especially if you keep high-value items inside. Insurers frequently impose strict limits and security requirements for outbuildings. Homeowners should carefully read their policy terms, as some insurers stipulate that valuable items must not be visible through windows.
Planting New Trees
Planting trees too close to buildings can cause long-term structural problems such as subsidence or foundation damage. This can affect your home insurance and may result in claims being rejected if the risk wasn't declared or properly managed.
Poor-Quality Garden Work
Substandard garden work that causes problems can put your insurance at risk. This includes badly fitted decking, unstable patios, or poorly installed electrical work. If the work is deemed unsafe, poorly executed, or not compliant with regulations, it could invalidate a claim if it contributed to the damage.
Trampolines and Large Play Equipment
Trampolines and large outdoor play equipment like climbing frames increase the risk of injury, especially to children, and create liability complications if someone is hurt on your property. Many insurers exclude them altogether or impose strict conditions such as safety nets, soft landing surfaces, or secure anchoring for cover to remain valid.
