A new campaign to highlight the growing problem of home flooding caused by burst water pipes has attracted the interest of more than 4,000 Channel Islanders.
Insurance company Islands launched the Escape of Water campaign following a significant rise in the number of insurance claims as a result of burst water pipes making homes uninhabitable.
The campaign includes flyers being sent to 10,000 houses across the Channel Islands, online and published advertising, and information on the Islands website – all to make people aware of the issue and to take steps to reduce the risk of a problem.
Jim Purkiss, Sales and Marketing Director, Islands, said: “We have been working to make all islanders aware of the impact that water damage can have, how common these incidents are becoming, and what steps can be taken to help prevent or minimise claims.”
“We have seen a dramatic increase in the number of Escape of Water claims. Insurance can repair your property, replace damaged contents and cover the costs of alternative accommodation, however nothing can compensate you for the stress and trauma of not being able to use your own home for weeks or even months whilst your home is drying out. Nor can insurance compensate for the damage that can be done to irreplaceable personal possessions such as family photographs.”
The company has issued advice from experts, and is urging home owners to check their property for leaks. So far, 4,300 islanders have visited Islands’ website to get information on how to protect their home.
Jim said: “A burst pipe may not sound like much, but it can have a huge impact on a family. Taking a little action now could reduce the likelihood of problems in the depths of winter and, while we are here to support our customers, prevention is always better than a claim.”
You can see the Escape of Water checklist here.
