Home insurance claims caused by toddlers

Far from the image of adorable sweethearts they may have for their children, parents have been warned that toddlers are likely to cause home insurance claims .

According to new figures from home insurance provider Direct Line, 60 per cent of parents say that their nipper has caused some form of destruction around the house .

Some of the most common forms of damage by mischief were identified as stains on the carpets, walls covered in scribbles and torn wall paper . All of these could lead to a hefty repair bill or home insurance claim .

However, their under-fives were also found to have a penchant for fiddling with electrical equipment, breaking windows, painting fixtures and fittings and destroying the garden's flora.

Andrew Lowe at Direct Line Home Response 24 advised parents to ensure they have adequate home insurance cover in place to handle the minors' misdemeanours.

We understand that homes are prone to toddler damage, indeed, our research has shown most toddlers have caused some form of destruction, he said.

NFU Mutual recently advised home insurance customers to ensure their properties are ready for the onset of winter.