Burst pipes to push up insurance claims

11/03/2010 16:11:33

Burst pipes to push up insurance claims The big freeze may be coming to an end but the job of counting the cost of flooded bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms is just getting started.

Insurers are expecting a hefty bill from homeowners after sub-zero temperatures resulted in a spike in frozen pipes.

If pipework freezes it can cause leaks, which is especially damaging if a property's occupants are away on holiday when it happens.

According to the British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA), claims for burst pipes are not only increasing in frequency, but they are also getting more expensive.

"These days they [burst pipe claims] tend to be much more expensive than they used to be because everyone has much more designer furniture and replacing items is more expensive," said Steve Foulsham, technical services manager at the BIBA.

The trend towards more expensive bathroom suites will also have contributed to pricier claims, with bathrooms particularly at risk from flooding because of all the pipework.

Mr Foulsham warned that it was not just those directly affected by burst pipes that should be concerned, suggesting that premiums are likely to rise across the board as a result.

"Once we know all the figures it wouldn't surprise me one little bit if it leads to some sort of rate hikes in the market, because of the sheer volume of claims," he added.

Posted by Rachel King
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