Check home insurance policies for Christmas

Homeowners are being warned to ensure they have adequate home insurance and security in place to protect their property this Christmas.

Bradford Bingley says that as the festive season kicks off home contents value increases, maximising the risk for damage or loss of property.

The insurance company points out that 80,000 British households were burgled last yuletide. And with people expected to spend some £310 on gifts this year, up to £50 million could be lost through theft.

Christmas is a time for enjoying family, friends and festivities, says Dave Foyle, the head of general insurance at Bradford Bingley.

He says that knowing that have sufficient home insurance means you can enjoy your celebrations stress-free and safe in the knowledge your home and its contents are protected.

Bradford Bingley notes that now is the time to add any expensive presents to a home contents insurance policy.

Furthermore, people should keep presents out of the view of opportunistic thieves, the insurance company warns.