Home insurance policyholders warned about DIY disasters

As another long bank holiday weekend looms, home insurance customers are being urged to think twice before trying to install a new shower or kitchen unit by themselves.

According to research from financial services provider Halifax Home Insurance, the total amount of money spent by British homeowners trying to repair botched DIY jobs every year is £670 million.

Moreover, it appears that some regions spend more money on unnecessary repairs than others.

For instance, homeowners in the Midlands spend an average of £4,552 each on badly-executed DIY repairs, while those in Scotland typically shell out £142.

Vicky Emmott, senior manager of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, warned that some people could also risk invalidating their insurance.

Trying to tackle certain areas that you are not qualified for, such as electrics of plumbing, could invalidate your home insurance and leave you liable for the cost of any subsequent damage, she said.

Typically, home insurance cover can be broken down into two core elements that can be bought from separate providers.

Home contents insurance protects items held within the property, such as computers and entertainment systems, while buildings insurance covers the exterior of a property.