If you’re an owner of a static caravan, there are a number of things you should take care of when closing your shutters between visits, especially over the winter period to avoid unnecessary claims on your caravan insurance. The majority of caravans are safe and secure, especially if parked on a residential site, from the prying eyes of thieves, but there are other things to take into account such as accidental damage from fire and adverse weather, not unlike the type of policies available for house insurance.
When shopping around for insurance, you need to consider the way in which you use your static caravan and determine key features that you would like included in your cover. The needs of a residential caravan owner will differ from owners that have a caravan as a second home, as a business address or those who lease their static out as a holiday home. Going through this process will help you identify the major points that your caravan insurance should contain and ensure that all your needs are met should you’ve to make a claim.
If your static caravan is going to be left unoccupied for a sustained period of time, it is wise to take precautions against theft, just as you would with your home. Securing a caravan’s contents against theft is made easier by the fact that sites are managed by an owner who will run regular patrols and have a security system to deter would be thieves. Contrary to the general consensus, it is not wise to shut the curtains to hide items from prying eyes. This only advertises that fact that nobody is present, and is more prone to attract attention.
Instead, make sure that curtains are left open but all items of value are safely stowed away. television’s, stereos, DVD players and the like should be hidden from view. The idea behind this is that if a potential thief can see that there’s nothing to steal, then there is no point in breaking in. In turn, this will save making an insurance claim for not only stolen goods, but damage to property. Inform the site manager and maybe some of your caravanning neighbours that your static home is going to be empty for a while and to report any uncommon behaviour in your absence.
Even if you are only planning to leave your caravan vacated for a week, it is still wise to ensure that these security procedures are put into place. But there’s more to keeping a ‘no-claims’ than just tucking away the valuables. Taking care of the utilities is a must, especially in the winter months. Even if you’re only going to leave your caravan empty for a few days, ensuring that damage caused by freezing conditions is minimised is a must. Drain any excess water from the systems such as loo, shower and basins after turning off the water supply, and lag any pipes that might be susceptible to frost to prevent burst pipes. Make sure that the gas and electricity supplies are switched off and all electrical items are protected from damp conditions.
To avoid minor claims for damage to soft furnishings and other items from damp and cold, ensure that there’s sufficient ventilation. Mould from blocked air vents can cause damage to fridges, wardrobes, curtains and bedding and couch areas. Make sure that all areas are thoroughly cleaned, and doors wedged open to aid circulation. And finally, if there are other people using your static caravan, leave a checklist of things to do and not to do to avoid any unnecessary damage or accidents.
About the Author
Dominic Donaldson is an expert in the insurance industry.
Find out more about Caravan insurance for a static caravan, or just some helpful advice at Naco Services.
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