Many homeowners underinsured

NFU Mutual has warned that nearly a quarter of the UK's property owners could be at risk of theft due to being underinsured.

According to the insurance company, 22 per cent of homeowners merely renew the same home contents cover every year, regardless of new purchases.

This comes as purchases of expensive entertainment equipment become rife, as 18 per cent of respondents are not even aware that there could be advantages to checking what their insurance policy covers.

Additionally, around 30 per cent of Londoners do not have any insurance at all.

Speaking for NFU Mutual, Laura Wood said: "Our research shows that some of the reasons given for not reviewing include ignorance, laziness and a belief that the process is time consuming.

"As well as annually, other good times to review your level of cover could be when you make a large purchase, move house, begin living with someone or after a milestone event like a wedding."

She added: "All of these things can make a difference to your sum insured."

25/09/2007 16:29:08