Households across the UK are being urgently warned against a potentially costly cost-cutting measure this winter. Financial experts have revealed that completely switching off your heating during colder months could risk invalidating your home insurance policy.
The Insurance Pitfall of a Cold Home
With persistently high fuel costs forcing difficult budget decisions, the temptation to turn off heating entirely is understandable. However, Angela Pilley, a home insurance specialist at financial information firm Defaqto, explains this short-term saving can become a expensive mistake.
"Persistently high winter fuel costs are forcing many people to make tough choices about their household budgets," Ms Pilley told the Express. "But a short-term saving, like turning your heating off, can quickly become a costly mistake if pipes freeze then burst and cause serious water damage."
Research conducted by Defaqto in October examined standard boiler, home emergency, and buildings insurance products across the UK market. The findings highlight significant risks for households considering drastic heating reductions.
Policy Requirements and Boiler Cover Caveats
Many insurers have enhanced conditions for "escape of water" claims during colder months. Some policies now explicitly require homeowners to maintain heating above a specified temperature, even when the property is occupied.
"Some insurance policies now require minimum heating levels to be maintained if you are away for only a few days and some even when the property remains occupied," Ms Pilley stated. "If a pipe bursts because the temperature wasn't maintained, you may find you're not covered."
The research uncovered crucial details about boiler and home emergency cover:
- 82% of boiler and home emergency policies require evidence of boiler servicing within specified timeframes
- Over a third (35%) won't cover boilers beyond certain ages, typically 10-15 years
- 83% of new boiler cover policies include exclusion periods, most commonly 14 days
- Just over half (57%) contribute toward boiler replacement, with amounts ranging from £250 to £2,500
Expert Recommendations for Winter Protection
Louise Clark, manager of general insurance policy at the Association of British Insurers (ABI), emphasized preventive measures: "As the cold snap bites and temperatures tumble, a few simple precautions can help you avoid the disruption and distress of frozen or burst pipes this winter."
Defaqto's key advice for homeowners includes:
Always examine your insurance policy terms and conditions carefully, particularly regarding boiler servicing requirements and age limits.
If leaving your property vacant, verify whether your home insurance requires maintaining a minimum temperature. Even if not mandatory, this measure reduces burst pipe risks.
Utilize anti-frost settings on smart thermostats or the snowflake symbol setting on radiators to maintain minimal temperatures.
Program your heating on a timer if away, and consider informing your insurer about extended absences.
When replacing boilers, check whether your current policy provides coverage and review manufacturer warranties.
Ms Pilley concluded: "A few simple precautions such as maintaining your heating and servicing your boiler will make all the difference in keeping your cover valid and protecting your home through winter."
