One in two Nationwide home insurance claims are for accidental damage or loss

The more superstitious may think it is safer to stay indoors, however, statistics show that more accidents happen in the home than anywhere else.*

With the large number of accidents that are taking place in the home, it is more important than ever to have accidental damage cover in place on home insurance policies to protect belongings. The theory that we are an accident prone nation is supported by the fact that around half of all Nationwide’s home insurance claims over the last six months have been for accidental damage or loss.

Some of the most popular claims for accidental damage and tips to prevent these accidents are:

CLAIM – Damage to: TIPS

Bathroom fixtures Always have bath mats in place in the bath and shower rooms to protect you from slipping and damaging yourself and your bathroom suite

Drains, pipes and cables Be alert when carrying out home improvements and always check internal walls and floors before drilling

Mirrors When moving items, make sure they are protected and re-secured firmly in place. Minimise the risk of personal injury by cleaning up breakages immediately

Fixed glass such as windows Always make sure open windows are securely fastened on the latch and exercise care when resting ladders near windows

Nationwide’s buildings and contents insurance provides comprehensive cover at competitive prices. In addition, Nationwide’s contents insurance offers accidental damage as standard on home entertainment equipment including televisions, video, audio and home computer equipment.

Stuart Bernau, Nationwide’s executive director, said: “One in two of all Nationwide’s home insurance claims are for accidental damage to, or loss of, belongings. There are always simple measures you can take to reduce the chances of accidents happening on Friday the 13th but the best tip I can give is to make sure that you have appropriate insurance in place just in case.”