Homeowners have been warned that their pipes may be at risk of bursting due to the freezing weather conditions.

Insurance provider Aviva saw a 500 per cent rise in frozen pipe claims over the festive period last year.

The company noted that just one burst pipe in the loft can lead to water gushing through your property.

Greg Gladwell, director of household claims at Aviva, commented: "Because it is quite rare to have such cold snaps many homeowners forget that freezing and burst pipes can be a real problem - in some cases ruining entire floors of your home."

He added that when properties are left empty, damage can get progressively worse.

In related news, homeowners have been warned to be extra vigilant when cooking and using candles over the Christmas period.

According to insurance firm More Than, the number of properties affected by fire is likely to increase significantly over the coming weeks.

If your property is damaged by flooding, you may wish to place some of your belongings in self-storage.

Written by Emily Sanders