Pipework and plumbing problems are the main driver behind people claiming on their home insurance policies following the freezing and wet conditions of recent weeks.
This is according to new research conducted by Aviva, which found leaking water tops the list for home insurance claims, just ahead of storm and accidental damage.
In fourth and fifth place are theft and fire respectively, the latter of which covers the aftermath of small cigarette burns to major house fires.
Caroline Cooper, director of property claims at Aviva, said given the recent bad spell of weather, it is no wonder the smallest of everyday problems are prompting the most calls from customers.
She added: “If you do find a leak then it’s worth getting it checked out by a plumber as soon as possible to prevent the problem getting any worse and, of course, ring your insurers who can fix any damage caused by leaking water.”
This comes after the AA warned that content and building premiums for home insurance customers are on the rise, with its Shoparound summary recently showing both have increased by 0.5 per cent and 0.2 per cent respectively.