"Repair costs can quickly add up, so it’s a good idea for pet owners to review their home insurance policies carefully and consider upgrading their cover to include protection against pet damage"
- Amy Rootham - Compare the Market
More than half of UK pet owners do not have home insurance that fully covers damage caused by their pets, according to new research from Compare the Market. The findings highlight a lack of awareness around policy exclusions, with many homeowners left to cover costs themselves.
The survey found that 52% of respondents did not have full cover for pet-related damage under their current insurance. A further 30% confirmed their policy excluded pet damage, while 24% were unsure of their level of protection.
Common incidents reported included scratched floors or furniture (52%), stained carpets or rugs (45%), broken items such as vases and ornaments (35%), and chewed wires (28%). These types of accidents are costing owners an average of £148 to repair, with 41% of those surveyed stating they had paid over £100 per incident out of pocket.
Younger homeowners were more likely to take proactive steps. Among 25–34-year-olds, 65% said they would be willing to pay more for insurance that includes pet damage, compared to just over half (51%) of pet owners overall.
Despite pets often being seen as part of the family, the costs associated with damage can add up quickly. Nearly 60% of owners (58%) said they were concerned when confronted with the price of repairs. As a result, 45% reported actively supervising their pets to reduce the risk of further damage. Additionally, 42% said they had considered switching providers to secure pet-related cover.
“Pets are treasured members of families nationwide, but they can unintentionally cause significant damage to our homes,” said Amy Rootham, insurance expert at Compare the Market. “Our research highlights a clear disconnect between the financial impact of pet-related accidents and the level of coverage many owners have in place.”
Rootham added, “Repair costs can quickly add up, so it’s a good idea for pet owners to review their home insurance policies carefully and consider upgrading their cover to include protection against pet damage.”
