Property owners need to be on their guard against burst pipes this winter to avoid making claims on their home insurance.
This is the latest advice issued by M&S, which said that January this year saw a 220 per cent rise in claims relating to burst pipes.
Even homeowners who had left their properties for just a few days encountered difficulties, it explained, showing just how much of an impact the cold weather can really have.
Andrew Ferguson, M&S head of general insurance, said: "Escape of water can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage by destroying ceilings, furniture and irreplaceable personal belongings."
He added that asking a friend or neighbour to keep an eye on a property while it is unoccupied can help prevent any nasty surprises when the owners return home.
Drivers were recently told by the Highways Agency to start preparing now for wintery conditions, as this will help reduce the number of breakdowns on the country's roads. |