I've bought a holiday home – which insurance should I consider?

Insurance Provides Coverage and Peace of Mind

As a holiday home owner, investing in holiday home insurance is essential to ensure financial protection in case of an accident.

Get Good Standard Coverage

Holiday home insurance offers coverage for fire damage, protecting you in the event of:

• Fire
• Direct lightning strikes
• Explosions
• Soot from a fireplace or wood-burning stove
• Damage to electrical wiring or installations

Customise Your Insurance Coverage to Fit Your Needs

When you own a holiday home, it's essential to consider whether you need additional coverage tailored to your specific needs.

Do You Require Optional Basic Coverage for Weather-Related Damage?

The 'Basic Coverage' option provides financial protection for damages caused by weather. This optional add-on includes coverage for:

• Storm damage
• Burst pipes and installations due to frost
• Damage from thaw or cloudburst

In addition to weather-related damage, Basic Coverage includes protection for glass and sanitation, compensation for theft, and legal assistance in conflicts with neighbours.

Are You Renting Out Your Holiday Home?

Adding the 'Rental' option to your insurance may be beneficial if you rent out your holiday home during the year. This addition ensures you are compensated if your belongings are damaged, stolen, or vandalised while renting the property.

Would You Like to Protect the Furniture in Your Holiday Home?

To safeguard the furniture and belongings in your holiday home, consider 'Home Contents Insurance for Holiday Homes.' This insurance covers all ordinary furniture in a holiday home, including:

• Furniture and kitchenware
• Art and antiques
• Electronic equipment
• Canoes and kayaks

Please visit the link provided for more information about holiday home insurance options.

Advice to Prevent Damage to Your Holiday Home

To avoid damage to your holiday home, it's essential to have proper insurance coverage. However, you can also take proactive steps to minimise potential risks. Here are five key tips to keep in mind:

1. Air Out Your Home Frequently  
Ventilating your holiday home regularly is crucial in preventing mould and rot. While you are there, make it a habit to air it out several times a day. When visiting after winter, ensure there is adequate ventilation as well. Additionally, leave the interior doors open when you're not there, as closed doors can trap humidity inside.

2. Avoid Moisture Damage 
Regularly inspect the roof for holes or other damage that could lead to moisture problems. It's also important to check the gutters, making sure they are clear of leaves and debris so rainwater can flow freely. Ensure that ventilation grilles remain open to allow moisture to escape.

3. Use Linseed Oil for Painting  
If you plan to refresh the look of your vacation home with a new coat of paint, consider using linseed oil. It is highly water-resistant and will help protect your home from moisture damage.

4. Turn Off the Power  
Remember to turn off the power before leaving your holiday home for an extended period. This simple action can help prevent electrical issues and potential fire hazards. Just ensure that the electricity is not needed for any essential house functions.

5. Turn Off the Water  
To prevent water damage, turn off the water supply when leaving, especially during winter. Be sure to drain the pipes and taps after shutting off the water.

Tips to Prevent Break-Ins

In addition to protecting your home from damage, here are three tips to help prevent burglary, which is most common during autumn and winter:

1. Store Electronics Out of Sight  
If you have TVs, computers, or other valuable electronics in your holiday home, consider storing them away when you are not there. This habit also applies to expensive lamps and other belongings.

2. Draw the Curtains 
Feel free to keep the curtains drawn to deter potential thieves. By concealing your valuables, you reduce the temptation for break-ins.

3. Secure Garden Tools  
Store your garden tools in a locked shed or secure location where they are not easily accessible. Keeping tools out of sight makes it more difficult for thieves to find items that could be used to break into your vacation home.

These simple tips can better protect your vacation home from damage and theft.