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Why leaving a key under a doormat could ruin home insurance

Why leaving a key under a doormat could ruin home insurance

The service can help you if you have something stolen or your home is impacted by a fire or flood, as just some examples.
This financial cover can be crucial, but there are some actions taken that could end up invalidating it.
Heath Alexander-Bew, Director at the Alan Boswell Group, has shared that an action taken with your house key could lead to trouble.
Heath shared that if you are going away on holiday and leave your key under a doormat or plant pot, it could lead to problems.
He explained: "One in ten Brits admit to leaving a key under the doormat whilst away on holiday, which is one of the most common ways homeowners invalidate their home insurance.
"In many cases, in the event of a burglary or stolen possessions, there will need to be signs of 'forced entry' to make a valid, successful claim.
"By leaving a key to the property under a doormat or plant pot, homeowners make it easy for burglars to enter, potentially resulting in a declined insurance claim."
To get around this Heath suggests leaving a key with a trusted friend or family member.
Recommended reading:
Insurance experts list top 10 ways people invalidate their home insurance
What is accidental damage cover? The benefits and how to make a claim
How homeowners could be invalidating their insurance by having builders in
He continues: "Alternatively, invest in security measures such as a wall-mounted key safe which can only be accessed by someone who has the code.
"Always ensure your home is completely locked and secured before going on holiday, and do not leave any spare keys around.
"Further advice suggests to never reveal on social media that your home will be empty."
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