Are your Xmas possessions protected should a prowler come to prey on your presents?

The results of a new survey suggest that 39% of households leave gifts under Christmas tree before big day, yet many could be underinsured in the event of a burglary.

Crime statistics reveal that domestic burglaries increase during November, December and January, but because most contents insurance policies are based on a set figure, householders could find that their policy doesn’t cover everything in the house once new gadgets under the tree are factored in.

The survey by M&S Money has revealed that only 7% of householders are security-minded and wait until Christmas morning to put presents under the tree. Furthermore, only 20% of people say they are ‘very confident’ about what is covered by their home contents insurance, meaning many people may be unaware they are exceeding the limits of their normal home contents insurance cover.

According to the report, while 75% of UK households have home contents insurance, only 7.5% of policies across the market offer unlimited cover for the contents of your home.

David Wells, M&S Head of Insurance, said:

“At Christmas it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season and forget about home security. However, we all know there are criminals who see this time of the year as providing them with rich pickings.”

“Householders can take practical measures to deter burglars and protect their homes by keeping expensive Christmas presents out of view, closing curtains during the long dark December evenings and fitting timers to lights and radios which will create doubt in the burglar’s mind.”

“Christmas should be a fun time of the year. By making sure you have adequate home insurance you can enjoy festivities in the knowledge that the contents of your home are protected should the worst happen.”

(Photo by Johnny Grim)