Insurers will have a list of requirements that must be met before they will accept cover or pay a claim. However, you can go above these minimum conditions which can help with premiums and lower the risk of a fire in your home.
- Think about taking a higher excess. A £500 buildings excess will help
- Woodburning stoves significantly increase thatched home insurance premiums
- Before you install one, be aware they increase the chance of a fire
- Consider asking insurers for a “dormant clause” whereby you promise not to use the stove
- Install wireless interlinked or mains wired smoke detectors instead, or as well as, battery-operated ones
- Add a heat detector in the kitchen
- Identify your nearest fire hydrant
- Ring the nearest fire station and ask if they will undertake an Operational Risk Assessment
- Ensure the electrics have been checked recently. Most insurers will need a certificate dated within the last five years. Make sure all recommendations (not just the urgent ones) have been carried out.
If you’re thinking of buying a thatched home or need some thatched home insurance advice, then give us a call on 020 7543 2801.
