While less frequent than water damage, these claims are often the most costly.
In the UK, fire and explosion incidents account for roughly 17% of all domestic home insurance claims, making them a significant cause of property damage.
Lightning strike claims are less common but costly, averaging around £7,000 per claim, though severe incidents can greatly exceed this with damage to building structures.
Key facts
- Fire is among the most expensive home insurance claims.
- Approximately 300,000 lightning strikes hit the ground in Britain annually, with peaks in June and July.
- Standard home insurance policies typically cover damage from lightning strikes.
- While many claims are for, smaller damage, major structural damage from fire can lead to substantial payouts, often involving complex, long-term claim processes.
The most common cause of house fires in the UK is cooking, responsible for over 50% of all domestic blazes, particularly when appliances are left unattended. Other major causes include faulty or overloaded electrical appliances and wiring, smoking-related materials, and the use of candles or heaters.
Preventative Measures:
- Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying
- Do not overload electrical sockets and check for frayed cables
- Test smoke alarms regularly
- Ensure
- Cigarettes are extinguished.