Halifax Names Top 10 Risky UK Regions

The latest data revealed in the Halifax Home Insurance report names UK regions that are most prone to unforced entry and thus, are characterized by the highest level of home insurance contents claims. Halifax data shows that London, followed by Leeds are the two regions where unforced entry, or burglary, are widespread. The third place is taken by Chester, Wirral, and North Wales; they are followed by Barnet and Enfield, taking the forth place. Other regions that make up the Top 10 of high-risk areas include Manchester, Kingston, Grimsby, and Coventry. It was also noted in the Halifax Home Insurance report that the burglaries might be caused by the fact 22% of the Brits choose not to lock doors while at home; moreover, 17% of all UK residents have no home insurance. Mr. Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, says that the company strongly recommends that all its customers not only lock their front door at all times, but also close their windows when not in the room. A separate report prepared by Saga Insurance showed that June 6th is the day when the majority of home burglaries usually take place. Meanwhile, another report published this week by Defaqto demonstrates a £100 excess on policies that is being imposed by British home insurance companies. Defaqto reported a 7% increase in the number of insurance companies with a £100 excess on property insurance polices, which took place in the course of the past year; it also said the number of companies with a £200 excess rose. According to Defaqto, although some insurers do offer a reduction in the standard excess, it usually comes at a cost of higher premiums. Mr. Powell, a representative of Defaqto, explained the existing policy by the desire of insurance companies not only to limit their exposure but also to reduce the number of small claims. In his opinion, another reason for high excesses is consumer acceptance.