Take cover

Above: latest issue

Q. I have a second home in France that I visit regularly during the summer. However, it is left unoccupied for long periods outside of the holidays; does this cause a problem with my insurance?

A. You have to bear in mind that different companies have their own rules. Check your policy but the sorts of things to be aware of are conditions that state you must turn off the electricity at the mains and water at the stopcock if you are away for a certain number of weeks. This is to reduce the risk of fire and minimise water damage in the event of a burst pipe. Some companies will even insist that you drain the water tank at the same time. You may also have a higher excess if the claim occurs while the property is unoccupied. It is always worth seeing if you have a neighbour who can keep an eye on your house; this is very useful if only to give you peace of mind.

This article can be found on page(s) 74 of the lastest issue

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