The colder weather that is part and parcel of the winter months could result in an increase in the number of home insurance claims people make, it has been suggested.Jason Orme, editor of Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine, explains a lot of home improvement work tends to be “not quite as effective in the cold” as it is during warmer periods.He suggests even relatively basic DIY jobs can be made more difficult, noting that painting can become a much longer process than when it is hotter.Paint needs a reasonably warm environment in order to dry quickly, Mr Orme explains.”And when it’s cold, foggy and frosty outside then the moisture doesn’t evaporate from the paint quite as quickly so it runs and it’s not as effective to do.”Meanwhile, a study carried out by Henley Centre HeadlightVision for Ikea UK and published in September 2008 found that 18 per cent of householder felt stressed about their homes.While real Christmas trees may have the festive smell and authentic look that their synthetic counterparts can only dream of, they could also result in the need to make a home insurance claim, it has been suggested.Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service tells the News and Star that it can take just 49 seconds for a dry, real Christmas tree to consume an entire room with flames.As such, people have been advised to be extra vigilant in the run-up to Christmas to ensure their properties remain safe.In addition, they should ensure their Christmas tree lights conform to safety standards and regulations to minimise the fire risk they may pose.”By following some simple rules everyone can ensure they stay safe and warm,” Lesley Graham, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service?s community safety manager, tells the publication.
