Reduce the risk and cost of claims

Home buildings and contents insurance

Hopefully you’ll never need to make a claim, but don’t just keep your fingers crossed, almost every policy has an excess that you will need to pay for. Therefore, reduce the risk of claiming and you can reduce the potential cot to you:

• Consider the proximity of trees to underground drains. Tree roots can damage underground drains and pipes.
• Don’t plant trees and shrubs too close to your property or your neighbour’s property, and prune trees and shrubs regularly. Large trees and shrubs are more likely to fall in the event of a storm, catch fire in bushfires and can damage you or your neighbour’s property.
• Take professional advice before planting or felling trees.
• Carry out regular checks for blocked or leaking drains, clear dirt and leaves from gutters and check pipes for splits.

Fire

A bigger and more common danger is fire in the home. You can greatly reduce this risk with the following 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.
• A household fire blanket or fire extinguisher.
• Store flammable liquids, such as methylated spirit, adhesives and paints, in a secure and tidy place, preferably outside.
• Regularly bin or recycle your rubbish, as it could be fuel for a fire.