General insurers warn of November 5th risks

by Gill Montia

Story link: General insurers warn of November 5th risks

As we draw to the end of October, general insurers are keen to remind property owners about the perils of Bonfire Night.

The truth is that letting off explosives in the dark, whilst surrounded by valuable property, is a high risky activity.

Norwich Union research shows that claims for fire damage increase 50% on 5th November, making the date second only to Christmas for this type of incident.

Claims for malicious damage to cars increase 40% on a normal day, making it the worst day in the year for such damage.

Party organisers who do not charge for admission will normally be covered for damage by stray fireworks by their household insurance.

This kind of damage is regarded as a standard peril in home insurance, although policyholders should not make assumptions but always read the small print.

In addition cover for accidents and injuries are covered under the personal liability section of home insurance.

Norwich Union, Halifax, esure, Cornhill Direct, Co-operative Insurance and Churchill all provide cover for up to £2 million if the policyholder injures a third party accidentally.

However, this type of cover can include a duty-of-care clause and firework party throwers may need to prove they took proper precautions in arranging their gatherings.

Claims can be affected if, for example, bonfires are built too close to the home, or petrol has been poured on the bonfire to ensure a good blaze.

The use of accelerants on Bonfire Night is common, with research from Halifax Home Insurance suggesting petrol, white spirit, methylated spirit, aerosols and even perfume are regularly ignited.

Finally, according to Norwich Union data, November 5th is the worst day of the year for home theft, with claims increasing by a quarter.