"Seemingly innocuous acts like these can actually create more problems in the event of needing to make a claim, so it’s essential you’re clued up."
Leaving a window open while you’re out (27%) is the top home insurance blunder. With holiday season now upon us, posting a picture of yourself on social media while you’re on holiday (16%) is second because it increases the chances of burglars being made aware that your home is empty. It is joined by failing to declare home renovations to your insurer (16%) – something that applies to larger home renovation projects such as a home extensions which boomed under lockdown.
Top ways people have unknowingly voided their home insurance
- Left a window unlocked when leaving the house/flat – 27%
- Posted a picture on social media whilst on holiday – 16%
- Renovated your house/flat without notifying insurer (e.g: loft extensions) – 16%
- Left a door unlocked when leaving a house – 12%
- Had a friend to stay for over a month – 10%
Praksha Patel-Shah, insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, commented: “What our research underlines is the importance of understanding the key provisions of your main insurance policies, such as those covering your home and car.
“With holiday season finally here, many of us might be keen to share photos of our break on Instagram or take a drive with a pet unrestrained in your vehicle but seemingly innocuous acts like these can actually create more problems in the event of needing to make a claim, so it’s essential you’re clued up.
“If you haven’t read your policies for a while, re-read them to familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions to ensure that you’ve got the right cover for your needs. If you haven’t, shop around for a better deal – you could save up to 46% on your home insurance and up to £236 on your car insurance.
