Home insurance at Christmas

Most home insurance policies will provide additional cover over the festive period, taking into account increased levels of contents and personal possessions cover.

Our advice is to make sure appropriate cover is in-force in the unfortunate event that you do become a victim of crime or any adverse weather.

Increased Christmas cover

Unfortunately, Christmas is a busy time for burglars, according to UK Crime Stats there is a 40% rise in attempted theft during the festive season. 

Most home insurance provider’s increase their contents cover over the festive period, however some do not add this cover automatically, making it important for you to check that you are not missing out on extra cover.

It is also worth considering the optional “accidental damage” cover. Most policies purchased on-line only offer the standard “new for old” in order to give the impression of a cheaper price.

The contents value in your home usually increases over Christmas either with gifts we buy or the extra food and drink for the holidays.

Most reputable insurers with quality products will allow for an increase during the festive season and cover will be extended automatically. However insurers vary so it is worth checking if included automatically and what the amended limits are, don’t assume you are protected.

Even if the cover is extended for a limited period it is worth checking the single article limit in case of any high value purchases.

Under the unspecified section of valuables on your insurance policy there will be a “single article limit” i.e. the maximum that insurer will pay for any single item, pair or set, typically limited to jewellery.

If you have got a high value item, whether for yourself or as a present, consider having that item specified on the policy to avoid any confusion or disappointment in the event of theft or accident.

And if you’re not planning on celebrating Christmas, check anyway as these cover extensions can be valid for a number of different holiday seasons and religious celebrations.