🌿🏡 Dreaming of a summer spruce-up for your garden? Before you dive into your DIY projects, here’s something you might not know! Your garden additions could actually impact your home insurance policy. 🏡🌿
Insurance expert Ian Wilson warns us about five garden features that might seem harmless but could complicate your insurance coverage. For instance, did you know that adding a garden room or outbuilding like a snazzy outdoor office or summer house needs to be declared? These structures can alter the rebuilding cost of your home and may increase fire or theft risks if not mentioned to your insurer.
Got a garden shed or storage unit? Make sure it’s secured and check if your insurance covers the valuables inside. Some policies have strict guidelines, especially if your shed’s storing goodies that can be seen through windows.
How about planting trees? A beautiful new tree might look great but planting it too close to your property could lead to structural problems that your insurance might not cover if left undeclared.
Even the quality of the work matters! Badly done DIY projects like unstable decking, uneven patios, or dodgy electrical works can invalidate claims if they cause damage down the line because they didn’t meet safety standards.
Last but not least, those bouncy trampolines and large play structures for the kids need careful consideration too. They heighten injury risks and may require specific safety measures for your insurer to keep them covered.
So, before you grab your toolbox, remember to keep your insurer in the loop and ensure all your work is top-notch to protect your investment. Happy gardening! 🌼🔨