Security, Fire & Leak Detection
Good risk management is vital.
Listed buildings are particularly susceptible to fire and theft, but steps can be taken to reduce these risks. Since faulty electrical wiring and appliances cause most fires, an inspection by a suitably qualified registered electrician on a five yearly basis is recommended.
Security measures should be taken to dissuade forced entry, which often leads to arson. However, all loss control provisions must be carefully designed so as not to compromise or damage the historic fabric or integrity of the building.
Holiday Home Security Fears
Security against burglary is the number one concern for overseas home owners according to Hiscox – followed by issues with local bureaucracy and damage caused by rental clients. While Hiscox agrees that nearly 25% of claims on overseas property relate to burglary, it also highlights the importance of liability cover against a guest having an accident at the property - which could involve expensive litigation and compensation.
While Spain remains the most popular destination, many Britons are looking as far afield as Dubai and Egypt. Wherever you choose your holiday home, you need to know your investment is properly protected: local insurance policies may carry exclusions on burglary from vacant property or accidental damage, or inadequate personal liability levels; and claims support teams may not always be fluent in English.
La Playa provides full cover for overseas property – on your existing home policy if you prefer. Without the worries of small-print and language barriers, you can relax and enjoy the sunset with a G&T!
Gardens
We in the UK love our gardens - our sanctuaries from the crowds and bustle of life. In fact it's thought that we spent £4 billion last year on our gardens, so it may not come as a surprise to find that garden theft is on the up! Shrubs, patio furniture, lawns and garden machinery including chainsaws and strimmers are the most popular with thieves - and the most accessible. If you’ve invested heavily in your outdoor spaces, it’s important to make us aware so we can ensure your insurance policy reflects your garden and its contents. You can do your bit to help protect it:
- Make an inventory with estimated values
- Take photographs
- Lock gates and sheds
- Consider security lighting as a deterrent
- Discourage thieves with prickly hedges and trellises attached to the tops of fences
...and stay vigilant even if you're in the garden less over the winter!
SmartWater
SmartWater is a colourless liquid that is simply dabbed onto your valuables - jewellery, ornaments, electrical items, even your car. Each bottle contains a unique DNA-style chemical ‘code’ which is registered to you – conclusively proving ownership. Invisible to the naked eye, it’s almost impossible to remove. The liquid glows under ultraviolet light making it easy for the Police to detect. Talk to La Playa about using SmartWater.
Wealth and Safety
For a comprehensive security service, try Wealth & Safety, who offer security surveys, vetting of domestic staff, debugging, alarms, locks, CCTV, safes, gates & railings and vehicle anti-theft systems.
More links to recommended Security, Fire & Leak Detection companies can be found here.
Testimonial
“We have had two burglaries recently. The main loss of jewellery wasn't specifically insured through an oversight. Mike Cullen did a brilliant negotiation on our behalf.”
George A, Private Client
