Axa: Burst pipes may be bigger threat than burglary

Tuesday, December 8th 2009

Axa Home Insurance warns homeowners to guard property against burst pipes or they could face an expensive Christmas.

More people claimed insurance for escape of water during December and January last year than for fire or theft, says Axa.

Some 71 per cent of 2,000 adults questioned in November's OnePoll survey lock the windows of their homes when they leave for the Christmas holidays.

But 38 per cent of them would leave the heating on or take other precautions against burst pipes.

Nick Kidd, head of home insurance at Axa, says that people do not understand the importance of guarding against their water systems freezing.

Finding the devastation caused by a burst pipe "can be very stressful" and people can never compensate for the sentimental value of many items said Mr Kidd.

Data revealed by the insurers said £15,000 on average was paid last January when one in every 1,000 homes claimed for water damage.

Leaving heating on a minimum of 12 degrees C and asking neighbours to check on homes could protect property, Axa notes.

The UK Fire Service advises against overloading sockets and says Christmas trees must be kept away from heat sources to avoid emergencies during the festive season.