It is fair to say that if your property isn't kept in a good condition you are going to be paying very high premiums or you might struggle to get home insurance at all.
However, if you have a new property or just moved into a well maintained house then keeping it that way is vital.
The adverse conditions that struck the UK this winter can't be helped, which is why the amount paid out in home insurance claims was so high.
Alas, there is some basic maintenance tips you can employ that will go some way to ensure you aren't affected by the damage caused from an insured event.
Clear the Guttering A tedious job that no-one really enjoys doing but taking the time to regularly check that your gutters aren't clogged with leaves and dirt can save them from over flowing and breaking and causing damp to ruin your walls.
This is a particularly common problem as autumn moves into winter with falling leaves often settling in guttering.
Check Wiring Regularly This is a task that doesn't take too long but can save you a lot of potential hassle and heartache.
By checking the wiring to your main appliances to ensure that it is all in working order you can avoid the threat of fire that sometimes occurs when wiring is faulty.
Turn Off Your Water When You Go Away If you are going away over winter ask a neighbour or friend to regularly check on the house to make sure that your pipes aren't frozen or cracked.
In times when it is cold it might be beneficial to insulate your pipes so that they don't freeze.
By taking the time to check these basic maintenance issues you could save yourself from having to make a claim on your home insurance.