3 easy ways to... invalidate home insurance

We put home insurance in place as protection, so don’t invalidate it by accident, says Chris King, head of home insurance at comparethemarket.com

1 LEAVING DOORS AND WINDOWS UNLOCKED

‘Some insurance providers only pay out for a burglary claim if your home shows signs of forced entry. You could invalidate your claim by leaving windows and doors open or unlocked when you go out,’ says Chris. ‘It’s also important to be accurate when you describe your door and window locks to your insurance provider – if you make a claim, they may check your descriptions match what the assessors find.’

2 TAKING AN EXTENDED TRIP

‘If your property is empty for 30 days or more, it might invalidate your policy,’ Chris warns. ‘So if you intend to live elsewhere for a while, it’s advisable to tell your insurance provider ahead of leaving.’

3 UNDERTAKING BUILDING WORKS

‘If you’re having any work done, such as a new kitchen fitted or an extension built, you should inform your insurance provider,’ explains Chris. ‘The work could involve builders entering the property, and your house may be less secure. Your provider may place special conditions on your policy during the building work to cover for the increased risk. If you don’t inform your insurance provider about building work, you may invalidate your policy,’ he adds. For more info visit comparethemarket.com/ home-insurance