Brits set for weekend of DIY mishap

Home improvers have been urged to check their insurance policies before attempting any DIY projects this weekend.

A recent study by AA Insurance found over one in three (38 per cent) Brits will reach for the toolbox over the bank holiday break.

However, ten per cent of these projects will go pear-shaped, the research revealed, leaving homeowners out of pocket if they are not covered.

While people may save by carrying out smaller jobs themselves, it may be worth paying for an expert to fit things such as roof lights or conservatories to help avoid becoming one of the 38 per cent left trying to fix accidental damage to their property.

"Budding DIY-ers should check their cover before they get that tool box out," advised AA Insurance spokesman Simon Douglas.

"If necessary, accidental damage can be added to your policy."

He pointed out the company always notices an increase in claims over bank holiday periods but explained less than half are paid out as people often forget to add the extra cover to their deal.

A recent study from HSBC found adding a loft conversion to a property can boost its value by more than £13,000.