Tenants should take out contents insurance and speak to their landlords about investing in improving security, since this could reduce their insurance premiums, says Direct Line.

People renting property from landlords should make sure they have contents insurance that covers the full value of their belongings, particularly since it is "often a lot cheaper than you expect," according to head of Direct Line home insurance Andrew Lowe.

A Homeserve survey from April 2008 found that more than 60 per cent of people in the UK had experienced a home emergency in the past 12 months, with the average bill totalling £494.

Despite this, Moneysupermarket.com recently reported that 40 per cent of property owners do not have home insurance.

The cities where people are most likely to be burgled are Nottingham, London and Bristol, whereas Guilford, Dundee and Norwich were found to be the safest cities by insurance company Endsleigh.

"Investing in good quality locks for doors and windows will not only offer you peace of mind, but will also reduce your premiums," advises Mr Lowe.

Posted on: [ May 03, 2008 ]                     

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