UK households have been urged to take steps to prevent frozen pipe damage this winter that could cost them over £9000 to put right.
Damage caused by the bursting of pipes in the cold weather cost £9,300 on average to put right in 2021, according to analysis from home insurance claims.
However, there are some preventative steps that we can take to limit the risks, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI) who released the figure.
Here are ABI’s recommendations to help you protect your home as temperatures drop.
❄️ With winter fast approaching, we’ve published advice on how to avoid being caught out by frozen or burst pipes which can cause significant disruption, distress & expense.
Read more here: https://t.co/BPy0MYLKjj
Callum Tanner, the ABI’s manager, of general Insurance, said: “We understand the financial pressure which rising energy bills are having on many households.
“Taking a few simple measures now can reduce the disruption, distress and expense caused by pipe problems this winter, while keeping your heating bills as manageable as possible.
“Of course, insurers are poised to help if the worst happens, but prevention is always better than cure.”
Insulating water pipes, water tanks in the loft and using draught excluders around doors as ways to reduce your energy bills and keep your house warm
Visit the Energy Saving Trust website for more guidance.
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ABI advises that you should turn off your water mains at the stopcock immediately if your pipes freeze.
You should then wait for the pipes to warm up as well as move any of your belongings, furniture or clothes away from the pipes in case they burst
If your pipe bursts, you should contact your insurer right away to get advice, ABI says.
Many insurers operate 24-hour helplines and they will be in the best place to advise you on the next steps to take.
They will also be able to help to arrange for professional repairs to be carried out.
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