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Tourists face "havoc" on return home

(24 May 2007)

Going on holiday? – Get a great deal on travel insurance

In addition to taking out travel insurance, holidaymakers are being advised to take out an adequate home insurance policy for when they return home.

According to Halifax Home Insurance, more than one million British tourists come home every year to find their property in "havoc".

The study also revealed that last year consumers spent some £2.3 billion on repairing the damage caused by criminals, faulty utilities, the weather and loved ones.

Senior manager of underwriting Vicky Emmott said: "Home disasters can be extremely distressing at the best of times, so returning to one after a relaxing holiday would certainly bring you back down to earth with a bump, so having adequate home insurance cover to protect your property - whether it's occupied or not - is absolutely critical."

Over the past ten years, some 1.7 million holidaymakers were reported to have returned home to find their property had been victim of a burst or leaky pipe.

Meanwhile, criminals are said to cause more than £820 million worth of damage every year.

Ms Emmott added that in addition to taking out adequate home insurance, consumers should also ensure heating is left on during the winter to prevent pipes from bursting.

Those going away could also be well advised to take the time to ensure they have sufficient travel insurance in addition to home cover.

Earlier this week, Malcolm Tarling from the Association of British Insurers advised consumers to focus on the level of protection offered with travel insurance to make sure it matches their requirements.

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