Inform insurers 'before undertaking improvement projects'

17:06:20 4th June 2008

Consumers should make their home insurance provider aware of any major home enhancement projects, such as installing a conservatory or kitchen extension, before having work done, according to Sainsbury's Finance.

Neil Laird, home insurance manager of the firm, explains that the value of such an installation could see people left underinsured should an accident occur during or after the works.

"Minor DIY projects such as changing doors and decorating rooms do not require people to inform their insurer, but if people intend to make structural changes to their property they need to ensure they inform their insurer first," he adds.

Figures published by financial service provider Zurich in recent months found that the majority of consumers (87 per cent) carry out home enhancement work without checking whether they are insured for the work, or damage caused by it, before starting it.

The most common DIY projects undertaken by people were found to be painting and bleeding radiators.