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Autumn Home Insurance Tips: Protect Your Property This Season

Autumn in the UK is a beautiful time of year – crisp mornings, golden leaves, and cosy evenings indoors. But as the season changes, it also brings new risks for homeowners. From blocked gutters to rising burglary rates, small oversights in autumn can lead to costly damage – and in some cases, your home insurance might not cover it.

Most insurers expect you to take reasonable care of your home. That means if damage occurs due to poor maintenance or neglect, a claim could be rejected. The good news is that with a little preparation, you can protect your home, keep your insurance valid, and enjoy autumn stress-free.

Here are five common autumn mistakes to avoid – plus practical tips to keep your property (and your insurance cover) in good shape.

1. Ignoring gutters and drains

Falling leaves may look pretty, but they can quickly block gutters and drains. If water can’t drain away properly, it can lead to leaks, damp patches, or even structural issues. Insurers may see this as poor upkeep and refuse a claim.

What to do:

  • Clear gutters and drains regularly, ideally in September.

  • If it’s unsafe to do it yourself, hire a professional.

2. Skipping boiler and heating checks

After months of little use, boilers and heating systems often struggle when first switched on in autumn. A breakdown can be expensive – and insurers may not cover issues caused by lack of maintenance.

What to do:

  • Book an annual service with a Gas Safe engineer.

  • Keep a record of the service in case you need to make a claim.

  • Run your heating for 30 minutes before cold weather arrives to check it’s working.

3. Careless use of candles and fireplaces

Candles and log burners add warmth and atmosphere, but they also increase fire risks. Insurers may decline claims if negligence – like leaving candles unattended – is found.

What to do:

  • Always blow out candles before leaving a room.

  • Use sturdy, heat-resistant holders.

  • Sweep chimneys annually.

  • Test smoke alarms weekly.

4. Overlooking home security as nights get darker

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Burglaries tend to rise in autumn and winter. Many insurers require you to have reasonable security measures in place. If locks are faulty or doors are left open, cover may be affected.

What to do:

  • Check locks on all doors and windows.

  • Use timer switches or motion-sensor lights to make your home look occupied.

  • Never leave windows open when you’re out.

5. Leaving garden furniture unsecured

Autumn brings stronger winds and heavier rain. Outdoor items like trampolines or patio furniture can blow into windows or neighbouring properties, causing damage. If this happens, insurers might see it as negligence – and refuse to pay out.

What to do:

  • Secure items with anchors or covers.

  • Store furniture, BBQs, and toys in a shed or garage where possible.

Is your home – and insurance – ready for autumn?

Autumn is one of the most rewarding seasons, but it also comes with risks that homeowners can’t afford to ignore. By carrying out simple seasonal maintenance, you’ll not only protect your property but also make sure your home insurance cover stays valid.

At einsure.uk, we make it easy to check that you have the right protection in place. You can quickly compare home insurance quotes online to ensure you’re covered against autumn risks – and avoid any nasty surprises should you need to make a claim.

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