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Drought warnings highlight need for buildings insurance

22/05/06

Houses in drought-prone areas are at a higher risk of damage, highlighting the importance of protecting your property with a home insurance policy.

According to the Environment Agency, the UK is currently experiencing its worst dry weather since 1976 and this can have a significant impact on the foundations of homes, with cases of subsidence becoming more likely.

Around 13 million households in the UK are currently subject to restrictions on their water use following extensive dry periods, with the situation expected to worsen over the coming months.

With the restrictions mainly focussing around the south-east of England, in areas such as Surrey and Kent, consumers are being advised to make sure their home insurance policy is up-to-date and covers any damage that might occur as a result of dry weather.

Richard Mason, director of price comparison website insuresupermarket.com, comments: "If you do live in an area of drought, make sure you check your building insurance is up to date.

"If you're insured and the worst does happen, you'll be okay and covered at the best possible premium.

"Without insurance, it will be very costly to repair and could be much harder to obtain insurance."

Mr Mason adds that living in a drought area doesn't necessarily mean your home will be affected, although it places it at much higher risk.

He therefore advises homeowners to contact their home insurance provider as soon as they see any cracks developing, as insurance companies usually like to assess the development of cracks over time.