Homeowners urged to protect pipes this winter
Personal insurance
15th January 2010
British households are facing a serious risk to their properties during the current cold spell and are being urged to protect their pipes from freezing.
Below zero temperatures can freeze water in pipes, causing it to expand and potentially damaging plumbing systems and with further wintery weather forecast over the coming weeks, the threat remains for homeowners.
Those requiring a UK insurance policy are advised by the company that the average claim for burst pipes is almost £3,000 and they should take action to avert such problems by turning on central heating or hot water for an hour or two per day.
Grant Bather, Virgin Money spokesman, remarked: "Homeowners should make sure that they have adequate insurance and are taking the necessary precautions to minimise the possibility of freezing or faulty pipes."
Research by the firm discovered that around 15 per cent of all claims received between 2008 and November 2009 were related to "escaping water" or burst pipes.
Meanwhile, the Association of British Insurers recently warned drivers of an increase in thefts of vehicles left unattended while they were deicing.
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