Holidaymakers 'must not endanger home insurance while away'

People going away on holiday should be wary of risking their home insurance, an expert has said.

People heading off on single trip travel holidays in the coming months have been urged not to put their contents and buildings insurance cover in jeopardy while they are away.

According to Marks & Spencer Money (M&S), nearly three-quarters - 69 per cent - of all Brits will leave their houses unattended for at least one night in August, with more than half - 51 per cent - allowing their properties to be empty while doing so.

And some 24 per cent admitted that they may leave their home insurance policy at risk by not asking someone to check their property while they are on holiday, despite the fact that the average householder leaves two sets of keys to their home with people who do not live in their house.

Andrew Ferguson, head of general insurance at M&S, said that homeowners must "take appropriate steps" to ensure their property is secure before going away.

Meanwhile, Aviva and Santander recently announced the continuation of their home insurance agreement.

By Kate Guthrie