There are all sorts of risks that can't be predicted, as Sir Clement Freud would agree! However, we can still reduce the risks on our property through subsidence, fire or flood.
Sir Clement Freud, writer-broadcaster and grandson of Sigmund Freud, and also the quickest-witted, slowest speaking funnyman in the world, invited a fortune teller to his garden party. On the big day, he received a note saying: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, I won't be able to attend your garden party." If fortune tellers can't foresee the future, then no one can.
Insurance is about protecting yourself from unforeseen incidents. However, we don't just have to rely on after the event cover. We can take steps to reduce the risks we're exposed to. This is particularly the case with household insurance. Here are some tips, with special thanks to the Association of British Insurers (ABI):
Limit your risk of subsidence
- Don't plant trees and shrubs too close to your property. You should also consider the proximity of trees to underground drains and your neighbours' buildings.
Type of tree | Normal safe distance |
|---|---|
Willow | 40 |
Poplar | 35 |
Oak, Elm | 30 |
Horse Chestnut | 23 |
Plane | 22 |
Ash | 21 |
Cypress, Lime, Maple | 20 |
Sycamore | 17 |
Beech | 15 |
Hawthorn | 12 |
Cherry, Plum, Rowan | 11 |
Apple, Pear, Birch | 10 |
Laburnum | 9 |
Pine | 8 |
Spruce | 7 |
Holly, Laurel, Magnolia, Yew | 5 |
Source: Association of British Insurers
- Prune trees and shrubs regularly. The ABI goes so far as to recommend that you seek expert advice from an arborist to make sure they're pruned correctly.
- Carry out regular checks for blocked or leaking drains; clear dirt and leaves from gutters; and check pipes for splits.
Fire
Greatly reduce your risk of fire with these steps:
- Fit at least one smoke detector on each floor, and test them regularly.
- Check your electrical wiring, check flexes and cables for exposed wiring, and only use a qualified electrician to carry out repairs or alterations.
- More fires start in the kitchen than anywhere else, so don't leave anything heated by flame unattended.
- If fat catches fire, smother the flames with a damp cloth, or a lid or plate. Don't try to use water to put it out.
- The ABI recommends you have a household fire blanket or fire extinguisher (although only the wet chemical extinguisher used in professional kitchens can handle pan fires).
- Store flammable liquids, such as methylated spirit, adhesives and paints, in a secure and tidy place, preferably in your shed.
- Bin - or recycle - your rubbish, as it could be a major fuel for a fire.
- Think about any additional fire hazards associated with special occasions, such as party decorations, Christmas tree lights and barbecues.
Flooding
If you live in a flood risk area, you should:
- Listen to local radio and Environment Agency Floodline bulletins.
- Collect personal belongings, including insurance and bank details and store them in a waterproof bag.
- If it's safe, move property upstairs.
- Be prepared to switch off gas, electricity and water at the mains.
- Contact your insurer immediately after the claim arises. It should be able to advise on what to do next.
Or you could ask a fortune teller to warn you before something happens, but Sir Clement wouldn't advise it!
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