Home Insurance News from Be Wiser

Home insurance 'can be invalidated by DIY'

Home insurance customers have been warned that doing DIY can invalidate their policy.

A recent survey by Sainsbury's Bank found that two in three Britons are saving money during the recession by carrying out "high risk" improvements themselves – which has saved them an estimated £49 billion.

If people do not carry out the relevant procedures – such as getting Building Control notification - they could be out of pocket in an adverse circumstance, the financial institution said.

Its home insurance manager Joanne Mallon said: "DIY is a great way to save money and the sense of achievement when the job's done can be tremendous, so don't ruin it by exposing yourself to calamity".

Her firm advises taking out accidental damage cover.

Other results of its survey revealed that internal painting is the most common improvement – carried by 51 per cent of respondents - and 38 per cent have undertaken electrical tasks such as replacing a light bulb.

Over the past decade, programmes such as Changing Rooms and 60 Minute Makeover have given DIY significant TV coverage.

Now could be a good time to have an insurance Q&A with your provider to check what you are covered for – and if you are receiving the best value.

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