Tesco Issues Urgent DIY Warning Ahead of Bank Holiday Weekend

The Chief Customer Officer of Tesco Insurance has issued a critical warning to UK homeowners about the potential risks associated with DIY projects during the upcoming bank holiday weekend. Alex Cross highlights that failing to inform home insurance providers about significant home improvements could lead to invalidated policies.

As many households prepare for the long weekend, research conducted by Tesco Insurance reveals that a striking 70% of homeowners have never notified their insurers about DIY plans. This lack of communication poses a risk that could undermine their coverage, particularly in the event of an accident or damage related to home improvements. Notably, over half of the respondents, specifically 58%, reported experiencing costly DIY mishaps.

During bank holidays, approximately 24% of homeowners and renters engage in DIY activities. While many may consider minor tasks harmless, a significant portion has fallen victim to more serious accidents. The data indicates that younger individuals are particularly vulnerable; 69% of Gen Z (ages 18-26) and 64% of Millennials (ages 27-42) have reported DIY disasters, compared to just 37% of baby boomers.

The average cost of rectifying a DIY error in the UK stands at approximately £922, with 19% of individuals spending over £1,000 on repairs. Alarmingly, nearly 9% of respondents incurred expenses exceeding £2,000 due to DIY blunders.

Despite minor decorating tasks often not requiring prior notification, it is crucial for homeowners to understand that more substantial changes typically necessitate informing their insurance provider. Cross emphasizes that the nature of home insurance is contractual, heavily reliant on accurate information regarding the property and its associated risks.

He stated, “Bank holiday weekends are a popular time for tackling home improvement projects, but our research shows that many are missing a key step in DIYing responsibly. Before starting any major DIY work, people should check their insurance policy. While most home insurance policies exclude accidental damage because of buildings alterations, renovations, extensions, or repairs, a failure to notify them could invalidate your home insurance policy.”

Common DIY disasters reported by homeowners include cracked plaster (28%), cracked tiles or wood (25%), and spilled paint or adhesive on floors or furniture (20%), among others. These incidents can lead to unexpected financial burdens, further underscoring the importance of maintaining open communication with insurance providers.

As the bank holiday approaches, Tesco Insurance urges homeowners to think carefully before embarking on DIY projects. Ensuring that insurers are informed about significant changes can safeguard coverage and provide peace of mind during home improvement endeavors.