Accidents cost insurers

Over the past six months accident-prone Britons have accounted for half of all Nationwide's home insurance claims.

13:50 11 August 2004

Over the past six months accident-prone Britons have accounted for half of all Nationwide's home insurance claims.

One in two of all claims have been for accidental damage or loss and with Friday the 13th approaching the building society is offering advice to consumers to help them avoid accidents in the home.

It emphasises the importance of being properly covered for accidental damage on home insurance policies .

Some of the most popular claims for items around the house include damage to bathroom fixtures, drains, mirrors and windows.

As a result, Nationwide advises people to use a bath mat to protect them from slipping and damaging bathroom fittings. Similarly, it warns people to "be alert when carrying out home improvements and always check internal walls and floors before drilling."

As for windows, the advice given is that people should "always make sure open windows are securely fastened on the latch and exercise care when resting ladders near windows".

Stuart Bernau, Nationwide's executive director, commented: "There are always simple measures you can take to reduce the chances of accidents happening on Friday the 13th but the best tip I can give is to make sure that you have appropriate insurance in place just in case."