Toddlers Costing Homeowners Millions In Damages

We love them dearly, of course, but children can cause much heartache. Not least of which when they have inadvertently knocked over mum’s cup of tea or broken the TV remote. Apparently this is a much bigger problem in UK homes than first thought.

Parents in the UK pick up a combined bill of £122 million each year due to damage caused by toddlers, it has been claimed.

The little darlings spill drinks, graffiti walls and furniture and damage mobile phones, according to a leading high street building society.

In this respect, home insurance may be a good present for parents who have just welcomed a son or daughter into the world.

The research added that boys are 20 per cent more likely to damage properties than girls, with spillages and damage to carpets causing despair for 68 per cent of mums and dads.

"Parents can protect themselves from the costs of home repairs and damaged contents by ensuring their home insurance includes accidental damage cover," said a senior claims manager for the firm.

In addition, little children can easily be hurt themselves which is not something any caring parent wants. So childproofing your home can be a good idea. Children love to explore their surroundings but obviously it is important for them to do so safely. There are many ways to prevent your or someone else’s toddler damaging your home.

Top tips to stop toddler related damage:

•    Keep matches and lighters out of reach.
•    Place safety latches on all doors and cabinets, especially where cleaning products and medicines are located.
•    Move all glass or breakable items to the higher shelves.
•    Remove all pens, pencils and other drawing implements to a locked box or high shelf.
•    Do not use table clothes when toddlers are around as things on top will be on the floor if the toddler decides to pull the cloth.
•    If your TV stand isn't sturdy, buy one with a wide base and keep the TV away from the edge. Secure the stand to the wall.

If you would like to know more about home insurance why not ask AnswerBank Insurance.