Monarch Holiday Makers Taking Risk With Their Homes Too

Holiday makers caught in the Monarch airlines fiasco could face further trauma and major cash losses if they discuss their plight on social media, a leading lawyer has warned.

Online posts from passengers which unintentionally advertise the fact they are away could invalidate home insurance should they get burgled during their absence.

This is because insurers may regard such actions as ‘reckless’ despite the trying circumstances, says Danielle Clements, a disputes resolution specialist at Gorvins solicitors in Stockport – whose offices are in the same building as Monarch holidays.

Most insurers request that you take ‘reasonable care’ about  home security – and that includes being prudent about flagging up when you are away on holiday. By telling everyone where you are, the inference is that you haven’t taken enough care to protect your home.

Adds Danielle “It’s understandable for those affected by Monarch who were planning to go away or who are making alternative arrangements to have discussions on the likes of Facebook or Twitter.

‘But in the process you are advertising the fact that your property is empty which could, in turn, be seen as increasing your risk. And that may nullify your existing insurance. So as well as the upheaval and possible losses incurred because of Monarch going bump, you could face serious financial loss and trauma if your home is burgled as a consequence.’

Monarch airline ceased trading on Monday morning, leaving an estimated 100,000 British tourists stranded abroad.

However, revealing location may also lead to a payout being refused by an insurer. So Danielle also warns those passengers already abroad against  using social media websites and apps which  share your location as well as avoiding the much used Facebook check-in. Revealing where you  are may also lead to a payout being refused by an insurer.

According to data from ADT, the alarm and security systems provider, revealed that 78pc of burglars use Facebook and Twitter to target potential properties.

What’s more, if the Monarch debacle leads to you unexpectedly extending your trip it’s important to check insurance too, warns Danielle.

Most policies only offer cover for 4 weeks. If you’re away for more than that  and something happens to your property your claim could be rejected.

‘Policy holders need to be aware that social media is playing a real role in insurance cover – especially in the link up with break-ins. It would be awful if you’d already been through the upset of changing your plans or losing money over Monarch to find that your home was vulnerable too.`

Danielle Clements is available for interview.

For more information please contact

Paul Longmire | Marketing Manager
Marketing
T: 0161 930 5278
M: 07917 891097
@: Paul.Longmire@gorvins.com