Homeowners advised to make winter checks

26 November 2007

Homeowners were today advised to give their property a thorough inspection before the cold and damp weather of the winter sets in.

The price of heating oil has risen by 40 per cent in the past 12 months, meaning many households are facing the prospect of an expensive few months.

Steve Johnson, head of Sainsbury's Home Insurance, warned that people who fail to make some simple checks and carry out maintenance tasks on their home could be leaving themselves open to the possibility of even more expense.

He explained that the risk of damage to property increases during bad weather and advised householders to check whether their roof is in a safe condition.

Mr Johnson added: "Homeowners may not appreciate that failing to make repairs to their home, for example not replacing loose roof tiles, could result in claims either not being met or not paid in full."

As well as looking at the roof, the insurance company recommends homeowners should ensure that pipes and tanks in the loft are lagged and that they have sufficient loft insulation in order to help minimise the risk of a water leak.