Homeowners 'should secure their homes while on holiday'

Homeowners thinking of going on holiday this year should be sure to check their property's contents insurance, it has been advised.

The AA has warned people to take a series of steps that will help avoid theft while away on holiday, including making sure that the contents cover will not have any stipulations regarding holidays.

Ian Crowder, public relations manager for the AA, explained that for people who decide to go away for a long period of time, the insurer may insist on special terms, such as a guarantee that the house will be checked regularly or an additional premium.

"Check your policy to see how long you can leave your home unattended - various insurers have various terms," he said.

On the other measures that people should take, Mr Crowder commented: "Make sure your home is secure [with] no windows left open [and the] papers cancelled, et cetera. Get a neighbour to clear post."

Statistics from Liverpool Victoria have shown that nearly 15 million people in the UK leave themselves open to the risk of burglary by leaving their possessions on show.