Home Insurance - Damaged Fireplaces

If you're unsure whether your mantelpiece will be covered by your home insurance policy, you can investigate online. Most providers include it as part of their contents cover; however it is always worth confirming this with your provider.

With the country having just experienced the coldest December for 100 years, it's only natural to want to curl up near an open fire. Perhaps the cold weather makes the sight of an attractive mantelpiece with its connotations of warmth and cosiness more appealing than ever.

If you live in a period property, you may want to find a fireplace and mantel that's in keeping with the rest of your home. Salvage and reclamation yards can be an excellent place to seek out a mantelpiece that dates back to the same era as your home. With a little love and attention and a quick trip to a restorers most antique pieces can be brought back to their former glory and go on to provide the perfect focal point for your room. In fact these kinds of period features can add value as well as charm to a property.

If you prefer a more modern look, you might opt for a clean contemporary design. However when making a big investment in your home, it is worth thinking of the future. Regardless of whether you decide on an old or new style, it is best to opt for a classic look that will stand the test of time. A degree of neutrality can pay off in the long run, especially if you decide to sell your home at a later date.

Reputable home insurance policies often have high limits for single items. Some home insurance companies will insure you for as much as £10,000 for any one valuable item. As you could easily spend thousands of pounds on an antique mantelpiece, this should offer some peace of mind.

Once your mantel is in place, you can set about making the most of it. During the season of warmth and good cheer, it can be a great place to put a few decorations or even some happy family photos on top of your treasured - and hopefully insured - family mantelpiece.