Tips to Avoid Claiming on Your Park Home Insurance
Looking after your property can go a long way, and these tips to avoid claiming on your park home insurance can help you stay protected, avoid unnecessary hassle, and even extend the life of your park home. While insurance is there for peace of mind when things go wrong, it makes sense to take simple steps to reduce the risk of having to make a claim in the first place.
Here are some key areas to focus on — all based on common claim types and years of experience from the team at Park Home Assist, one of the UK’s leading park home insurance specialists.
- Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid avoidable claims is to stay ahead of general wear and tear. Small problems can quickly escalate if left unchecked.
- Check your roof regularly for missing tiles, cracks, or signs of sagging. If your park home has a flat roof, clear any moss or leaves to prevent pooling water, which can lead to leaks.
- Clean gutters and downpipes at least twice a year. Blockages can cause water to overflow and damage walls, windows and foundations.
- Look out for signs of damp, especially around windows, skirting, and corners. Early treatment is far easier than repairing structural issues later.
- Keeping records of routine inspections and maintenance work can also be useful if you ever do need to make a claim.
- Protect Against Burst Pipes in Cold Weather
- Water damage from frozen or burst pipes is one of the most common causes of insurance claims, particularly in winter.
- If your park home is unoccupied during colder months, you will need to drain the water system and turn off the supply completely.
- Alternatively, keep the heating on at a low level, especially overnight or in areas prone to freezing such as underfloor piping or external walls.
- Insulate exposed pipes with lagging and check for any draughts that could cause cold spots.
At Park Home Assist we understand that park homes are sometimes left empty during the year and our policies are designed to take that into account. However, preventative action is still required under the terms of our policies — and it’s always worthwhile.
- Improve Security Inside and Out
Unfortunately, break-ins and vandalism are another reason some park home owners end up claiming on their insurance. The good news is that some relatively simple changes can help reduce the likelihood of theft or damage.
- Install motion-sensor lights around the exterior and consider using timer switches on interior lights when you’re away.
- Fit secure window and door locks and check them regularly for signs of wear.
- If you’re away for extended periods, you might want to let a trusted neighbour or site manager know, so they can keep an eye out for anything suspicious.
- Some owners also invest in smart security cameras or alarms. While not essential, they can act as a strong deterrent and may help support an insurance claim if the worst does happen.
- Maintain the Exterior of Your Home
The outside of your park home is your first line of defence against the elements, so regular upkeep matters.
- Check skirting and ventilation panels for damage or obstructions. These help with airflow and reduce the risk of damp or vermin.
- Treat timber cladding or decking if your park home has any exposed wood. Weatherproofing helps prevent rot and decay, which aren’t typically covered under insurance.
- Keep surrounding trees and shrubs trimmed. Overhanging branches can cause damage during high winds, and overgrowth can obstruct vents or contribute to damp.
- Keeping paths, steps, and handrails in good condition can also help prevent trips or falls — which may otherwise lead to costly liability claims.
- Don’t Forget Seasonal Checks
- Seasonal changes can bring their own risks. In autumn and winter, wind and rain are your biggest threats; in summer, you may want to be more vigilant about fire safety.
- Inspect seals around windows and doors before the colder months set in.
- Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly — and keep a fire extinguisher and fire blanket in the kitchen.
- In dry weather, avoid storing combustible materials too close to the home, particularly under decking or skirting.
Many issues that lead to claims can be avoided with these small but consistent checks throughout the year.
When You Do Need to Claim – We’re Here to Help
Even with the best care and planning, things can still go wrong. That’s why having the right park home insurance is so important.
At Park Home Assist, we make the claims process as straightforward as possible. Our UK-based team is known for its fast, friendly service and clear communication — so if you do need to claim, you’ll always speak to someone who understands your situation and knows how to help.
We’ve been supporting park home owners for over 20 years, and customer service remains at the heart of what we do. To find out more about our park home insurance, or to get a quote, call 01604 946 796 or go to https://www.parkhomeassist.co.uk/park-home-insurance/quote-request.
Please note that all insurance cover is subject to acceptance of terms and conditions.
This is a marketing article from Park Home Assist, multi award-winning providers of park home insurance, mobile home insurance, insurance for static caravans, insurance for holiday homes and holiday lodges, as well as boat insurance and touring caravan insurance. If you have any questions about your insurance, then please call our office on 01604 946 796 and one of our insurance advisers will be happy to help.
Published – 01/08/25