Winter insurance considerations

Introduction

We all know how unpredictable British weather can be, especially in the winter. Snow, ice, storms and freezing temperatures can all wreak havoc on our homes and businesses, not to mention long awaited travel plans and daily journeys.

In this article we explore the winter risks that could disrupt your home, business, travel, and daily life, and the simple steps you can take to stay protected and covered by your insurance.

Protecting your home

• Frozen/burst pipes

While you can’t control the weather, your insurer will expect you to take reasonable precaution to prevent freezing pipes. This includes the often overlooked areas like your loft and garage.

• Fire risks

Partial to a cosy fire when it turns cold? Avoid a costly claim by keeping your chimneys clean and always use a fireguard.

• Security

Security risks increase in the winter months when it’s dark by late afternoon. Keep your home secure by using timer switches for lights and never hide keys outside - as doing so could invalidate your insurance.

• Unoccupied property

Planning a long break? All home insurance policies have an 'unoccupied property clause' that details how long you can leave your home empty and remain covered. Make sure you check yours before you pack your bags.

Protecting your business

• Slips and falls

Don’t let icy or wet conditions leave you open to a public liability claim. Protect yourself by documenting gritting schedules and inspections and make sure any high-traffic areas are kept clean and dry.

• Premises maintenance

Snow on the forecast? Keep your drains clear to prevent any heavy snow weighing on your roof and causing structural issues. Inside your buildings, make sure heating systems and boilers are serviced and your electrical setups are checked. Fire risks from these failures are a big risk in the winter months.

• Staff safety

If your staff are on snow clearing duty they must be given proper PPE, equipment, and training. This is a must for meeting your employers' liability duty and defending against any related claims.

Protecting your car

• Windscreen and wipers

Windscreen repair and replacement claims can add up, so protect your glass from unnecessary damage. Make sure to clean your headlights regularly as dirt, salt, and grime can reduce brightness by up to 40%.

• Theft

De-icing the car? Never leave the engine running unattended. Some policies won’t accept your theft claim if the keys are left in the car, even just for de-icing.

Protection for getaways

• Winter sports cover

Going on a ski holiday? Standard travel insurance will not cover medical, equipment, or liability claims on the slopes.

• Accidents on piste

If you’re thinking of having a tipple, make sure you do it after your time on the slopes. Accidents that occur while under the influence of alcohol may be excluded from your cover.

• Off-Piste/extreme

Specialist standalone cover is required for activities like winter mountaineering or ice climbing.

• Delays and baggage

Cover can include compensation for piste closure (due to lack of snow or bad weather) after a specified period (e.g., 24 hours). Make sure you check your policy for the full details.