Save thousands and eliminate the effects of winter with the free VPS triple plan Cold Weather Guide
Last year, the number of claims for damage from burst water pipes alone was the equivalent of one every two minutes. As temperatures in the UK drop to below zero, VPS, the European market leader in managing vacant properties, has provided an at-a-glance checklist and re-issued their Cold Weather Plan to help owners of empty premises cut the cost of wintry weather damage. In 2014 over 260,000 claims were made for damage caused from burst water pipes – the equivalent of a claim made every two minutes of every hour throughout the year.
“We issue our winter weather guides in autumn.” explains Anthony Owen, VPS’ Managing Director. “But when the weather is mild, many landlords turn a blind eye to preparing their properties for ice and snow. It takes a cold snap like we have now to bring more urgency to the issue. All properties are at risk from wet or freezing weather or a heavy snow fall, but empty properties are particularly vulnerable, as damage can go unnoticed for days or weeks. Leaks from even a small burst pipe can release thousands of gallons of water if left unattended. The average insurance claim is an estimated £25,000 but costs can reach £100,000 or more for water damage to commercial properties.”
“Take action now. Prevention really is better than cure, and far more cost effective. Follow the tips in the free VPS guide, and ensure your empty properties are checked and maintained. We know this from experience – our inspectors carry out over 100,000 inspections a year and they can vouch how much money can be saved from preventing a burst pipe occurring than from the clean-up and repair afterwards.” Mr Owen concluded.
