At Brunel Insurance for People, we’re here to help you protect your home and avoid invalidating your home insurance. Here’s a guide to the common reasons why claims are rejected and how avoid that happening to you.
What Can Invalidate My Home Insurance?
Your insurer may refuse to pay a claim for many reasons, some include:
- Providing inaccurate information when taking out or renewing your policy.
Neglecting to update your insurer on changes like home extensions or change of use.
Why Are Some Claims Rejected?
Insurers rely on the terms outlined in your policy. Not adhering to these can lead to a rejected claim, such as:
- Being away from your home longer than the policy allows.
- Leaving your house unoccupied for longer than the time allowed for in your policy.
- Failing to carry out necessary repairs or maintenance.
- Leaving doors or windows unlocked, compromising your home’s security.
- Not reporting a break-in to the police as quickly as possible.
Often, claims are rejected simply because policyholders overlook details or misunderstand cover. Checking your policy thoroughly is the best way to avoid this.
Common Scenarios That Could Affect Your Cover
Unoccupied Homes
If your home is left empty for more than 30 consecutive days, it’s often considered unoccupied, and claims during this time may be denied. There may be things that you must do such as turning off the water supply of keeping the property heated. If you’re planning an extended trip or leaving your home unoccupied, contact your insurer to understand your policy terms and potentially arrange additional cover. Dependent on your circumstances you may be better with unoccupied property insurance.
DIY Disasters
Standard home insurance often doesn’t cover accidental damage from DIY projects, like bursting a pipe or damaging walls. Consider adding accidental damage cover to your policy for peace of mind.
Home Repairs and Maintenance
Insurers expect you to keep your property in good condition. For instance, neglecting roof repairs that result in a water leakage may void your claim. Regular maintenance, especially during winter, is key.
Home Improvements
Improvements like extensions or loft conversions increase your home’s rebuild cost. Inform your insurer before starting work to update your cover and ensure problems during the build are covered.
Working from Home
If you work from home, inform your insurer. Business equipment and liability related to clients visiting your property are often excluded from standard home insurance. A separate business insurance policy may be needed.
Renting Out a Room
Planning to rent out a room? Notify your insurer to adjust your policy. Failing to do so could leave you uncovered for damages caused by tenants.
What About Pest Infestations?
Most home insurance policies exclude damage from pests like rats or mice. However, if you’ve added home emergency cover, pest removal might be included. Act quickly to address infestations and minimise damage.
How to Avoid Invalidating Your Policy
- Read the policy terms and conditions: Understand exclusions and contact your insurer if you’re unsure about anything.
- Secure Your Home: Lock doors and windows, activate any burglar alarms when leaving.
- Don’t Hide Spare Keys: Burglary claims may be rejected if a thief uses a hidden key.
- Report Incidents Promptly: Notify the police and get a crime reference number as quickly as possible after a break-in.
- Store Valuables Safely: Secure garden tools and equipment in sheds or outbuildings.
- Be Honest: Don’t provide false information to save on premiums or exaggerate claims.
Need Guidance on Home Insurance?
At Brunel Insurance for People, we’re here to help you understand your policy and avoid pitfalls that could lead to claim rejections. Contact us today to ensure you’re fully covered should a claim arise.
