In the last few months, you may have had some more spare time to hand than usual. With limited entertainment options, Britons have been searching for at-home activities, and between February and March Google searches for ‘home improvement’ and ‘DIY’ increased 12% and 9% year-. In May, UK retail sales experienced a partial recovery, driven by DIY stores and garden centres reopening during lockdown. on-year, respectively.1
We may be a nation of DIY enthusiasts, but if you decide to do away with professional help, it’s vital to check you have adequate insurance cover first. It’s easy for amateur DIYers to become overconfident. It costs an average of £217 to have a DIY mistake professionally repaired2, and things can become costly, with UK adults botching an average of nine DIY jobs so seriously they need to call in the professionals.3
Cover all bases
It’s always a good idea to check your home insurance cover, DIYers should ensure they have sufficient accidental damage cover. This is particularly important as accidental damage is usually an optional extra that isn’t part of most standard policies. What’s more, some accidental damage policies only offer limited cover, so it’s advisable to check exactly what’s included. If you do decide to DIY it, check that you’re fully insured first.
🚨 Data accurate as of the date of publication – 02.11.2020.
🚨 The above material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a sales offer or financial advice. Before taking out any insurance, credit agreement or other financial product, you should obtain individual advice on your requirements and the general terms of the contract.
1True Solicitors, 2020
2David Wilson Homes, 2019
3Local Heroes, 2019