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Beach Huts vs Second Homes: Mudeford Owners Push Back on Council Tax Reclassification
Beach Huts vs Second Homes: Mudeford Owners Push Back on Council Tax Reclassification 1000 750 James Hallam

Beach hut owners on Mudeford Spit, Dorset, are investigating the legal basis of proposals that could see their huts reclassified as second homes for council tax purposes.

BCP Council, which covers Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, plans to remove discounted tax rates on the iconic sandbank huts, meaning more than 300 owners may have to pay full council tax from April 2026, pending cabinet approval.

The Mudeford Sandbanks Beach Hut Association (MSBHA) has criticised the move, arguing that the policy is being applied to structures it describes as wooden sheds with no mains connections or individual toilet facilities.

There are 344 beach huts on the spit, many of which can only be stayed in overnight for part of the year and are used seasonally (typically up to 8 months annually). Despite their limited facilities, such as no running water, power, or private toilets, huts can command six-figure sale prices, sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of pounds.

How Much Could Council Tax Increase for Mudeford Huts?

While 2026/27 council tax rates will be formally set in February 2026, estimates based on current Band A property rates (2025/26) indicate:

Current council tax    Expected under second-home classification
£618 per year    £1,236 per year

This represents a 100% increase, effectively doubling annual council tax liabilities for affected owners.

BCP Council hopes the change will generate approximately £211,000 in additional revenue to help address a £9 million budget shortfall.

The proposal will be debated by the council cabinet on 14 January 2026.

Rising Fees, Stagnant Services: Owners Voice Frustration

The reclassification comes at a time when beach hut owners are already experiencing sharp cost pressures. Annual fees have nearly tripled to over £5,200, as the council moves to standardise coastal charges.

Many owners argue that they might accept increased fees if infrastructure and services improved but report minimal investment in facilities for decades.

What This Means for Beach Hut Owners

If approved, this decision could set a wider precedent for beach hut taxation across the UK, raising important questions:

  • How do councils define habitable property?
  • Can seasonal, non-serviced structures be fairly taxed as residential homes?
  • What legal challenges might arise from classification disputes?

One thing remains clear: beach huts are valuable assets exposed to weather, theft, fire, storm damage and coastal risk and require specialist insurance protection, now more than ever.

Protect Your Beach Hut with Specialist Insurance

At James Hallam, we arrange tailored insurance solutions designed specifically for coastal properties.

Whether your hut is for family use, rental income, or long-term ownership, having the right policy ensures you’re protected against unexpected financial loss.

Unlike traditional home insurance, a specialist policy can provide:

  • Protection for high-value huts
  • Storm, flood and coastal weather damage cover
  • Fire and theft protection
  • Public liability (important for rental owners)
  • Contents cover designed for seasonal use 

Protection for High-Value Huts

Our beach hut scheme provides cover for huts with a rebuild value up to £50,000 and contents up to £10,000.

If a hut’s rebuild value exceeds £50,000, it may fall outside the scheme limits. In these cases, we can explore alternative options, such as a specialist holiday home policy. Please note that this may not offer the same tailored cover as our beach hut scheme.

We work with specialist insurers and will always aim to place huts under the beach hut scheme where possible, provided the rebuild value is within the £50,000 limit. For huts above this threshold, we’ll advise on the most suitable alternative cover.

Get a quote or speak to our insurance specialists today

 

What Happens If You Leave a House Empty?
What Happens If You Leave a House Empty? 1000 667 James Hallam

If you own a second home or a holiday home, then it is likely that your property will be left empty for months at a time.

In this post we will discuss the main risks associated with leaving a house empty; while exploring some steps you can take to secure your property while it is unoccupied.

What to Consider When Leaving a House Empty

There are a number of things to consider if you’re going to be leaving your house empty or unoccupied for a significant period of time (over 30 days), including:

  • Home insurance implications
  • Risks of leaving your house empty
  • Utilities
  • Security

In this post, we’ll discuss each of these in more detail and what you can do to help keep your house safe when it’s unoccupied.

Home Insurance For Empty Properties

The first thing to bear in mind when leaving a house empty is that, typically, home insurance policies will only cover occupied homes. The cover will not apply if you leave the home unoccupied for a specified period of time. In many policies, you can only leave a home unoccupied for 30 days before your cover expires.

So if you own a second home or a holiday home, no matter what steps you take to secure your property, it is a good idea to arrange for a dedicated insurance policy to cover your home whenever you leave it unoccupied.

Read our full guide to second home insurance.

What Are The Risks of Leaving a House Empty?

There are many risks associated with leaving a house empty. The main issue is that, if anything goes wrong in the house, it could be months before you or anyone else finds out. This means that small issues could ultimately snowball into major disasters.

Theft and Vandalism

Thieves may actively target empty properties, as they know that it could be months before anyone discovers the break-in. Vandals may target the home for similar reasons. Vandalism and forced entry could also leave the home vulnerable to other issues, such as trespassers and water damage.

Floods and Escape of Water

A house does not have to be located on a flood plain to be vulnerable to flooding. Low temperatures could cause the pipes to freeze and burst, which could result in escape of water and extensive water damage.

Fire

A fire could break out for any number of reasons, whether as a result of an electrical fault or arson. Fire could also spread from an outbreak in a neighbouring property. As we mentioned above, if your home is unoccupied, then even a small fire could soon escalate into a devastating blaze. And even if the fire is contained, if you are not around to address the damage, it could result in long-term structural damage.

How To Keep Your Empty Home Safe

First, be sure to get some dedicated second home insurance to cover your property. A standard home insurance policy simply will not give you the cover you need.

Should You Switch Off The Utilities in an Empty Home?

It might seem like a good idea to turn off the water, electric, and gas when your home is unoccupied. But there are a few things to consider:

  • A house without any power will look unoccupied, which may encourage any burglars and vandals in the area to break in.
  • You may need an electrical supply to power the home’s security systems while you are away.
  • It may be a condition of certain policies for the heating to be left on in the winter months. This will prevent the pipes from freezing, which will help prevent floods.
  • It could cost money to disconnect the home’s utilities, and it could cost you even more money to reconnect them again. Put simply, switching off the utilities could be more trouble than it is worth.

Keeping Your Empty Home Secure

Above all, never make it obvious that any property you own will be unoccupied. This means that you should not share posts on social media talking about your property while hinting at when you will, and will not, be around.

  • Invest in CCTV cameras, extra locks, automatic floodlights, alarms, and other security systems. Some CCTV systems allow you to monitor the feeds remotely, meaning you can personally check up on any alerts in real-time.
  • You could also invest in alarm systems that automatically alert the local emergency services, so that they can check up on incidents if you are not around to do so.
  • Consider appointing a house sitter, or an onsite security guard, to monitor the property while you are not around.
  • If possible, lease the property as a holiday home any time you are not using it. This will create additional insurance implications, but it will at least mean that the home is not left empty for too long.
  • Arrange for any mail to get redirected whenever you are not around. If your second home is in the UK, you can use the Royal Mail’s redirection service.
  • You could also talk to your neighbours and ask them to keep an eye on your house when you are not around. They could collect any packages that delivery drivers may leave on or around the house, and you could also ask them to look out for any suspicious activity.

Get Dedicated Second Home and Holiday Home Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in protecting your second home, whether it is in the UK or abroad.

We can also provide expert risk management advice to help you keep your second home secure whenever you leave it unoccupied.

Find out how we can help you today.

 

The Hidden Risks of Oversharing on Social Media
The Hidden Risks of Oversharing on Social Media 1000 527 James Hallam

Social media plays a central role in modern life, particularly for younger generations. Platforms are used to follow current events, connect with friends, track influencers, and document everyday moments. From holidays and meals to home décor and new purchases, social media has evolved into a digital diary for millions.

How Influencers Are Becoming Targets

Influencers often share large amounts of personal content to build trust and engagement with their audiences. Many publicly post:

  • Travel destinations in real time
  • New purchases and gifts
  • Inside views of their homes
  • Daily routines, meals, and lifestyle habits

While oversharing can strengthen audience connection and income opportunities, it can also create serious vulnerabilities.

Organised criminal groups are now exploiting publicly available content to gather intelligence. Posts can reveal someone’s:

  • Lifestyle and spending habits
  • Regular routines
  • Frequent locations
  • Travel schedules and absence from home

With so much personal information accessible online, criminals can identify opportunities with alarming ease.

Child Influencers: A Risk Parents Often Overlook

Many people assume influencers are adults who gained fame through TV or public media. In reality, influencers are increasingly teenagers and sometimes even younger children, especially on TikTok.

A large young audience combined with public accounts means:

  • Children may share sensitive information unknowingly
  • Parents may not always monitor content posted
  • Real-time location updates can expose the entire household

For example, during a family holiday, a teenager with a public profile might post updates instantly. This can unintentionally signal that the home is empty, creating a prime opportunity for burglars.

Social Media Isn’t Going Anywhere – But We Can Use It More Safely

We are not suggesting people abandon social media. The benefits are clear:

  • Staying connected
  • Enjoying entertainment
  • Learning new things
  • Sharing meaningful experiences

But safer habits can make all the difference.

Practical Tips to Protect Yourself and Your Family

To reduce the risks associated with oversharing, consider these safety-first practices:

  • Post holiday photos after returning home, not in real time
  • Increase home security while travelling (e.g., have a trusted person stay over)
  • Use privacy settings to restrict who can view your content
  • Review what appears in your photos, including:
    • Collectables or luxury items
    • Home layout details
    • Door locks, keys, alarm panels, and other security features

Stay Safe

Social media is here to stay. But increased awareness and intentional posting habits can help protect influencers, families, and young users from digital exploitation and real-world crime.

A little caution goes a long way in keeping what matters most – safe.

 

Does High Value Home Insurance Cover Christmas Gifts?
Does High Value Home Insurance Cover Christmas Gifts? 1000 667 James Hallam

Buying Christmas presents and gifts for other occasions, such as birthdays, weddings and anniversaries, means that you may temporarily store certain high value items, bought for friends and loved ones, in your home. If these items are lost or damaged, will your current high value home insurance cover you, or will you have to take out additional cover for valuable Christmas gifts?

Are Christmas Presents Covered Under High Value Home Insurance?

Your high value home insurance policy will cover you for Christmas presents. But the specific level of cover you get will depend on your policy wording, and on the value of the gifts themselves.

Standard Home Insurance: However, if you have a standard home insurance policy, rather than high net worth insurance, you should check your policy wording for a “New Possessions” section, as gifts for other people are not always covered as standard.

High Value Home Insurance: When taking out your high value home insurance, the policy wording will specify a level of cover based on the combined value of the contents in your home. This takes into account your home’s general contents, along with any high value items such as jewellery, antiques, art, and other collections.

Bringing Christmas presents and other gifts into your home may raise the total value of your home’s contents beyond your agreed cover limit. But does this mean that your policy will not cover you for any lost, stolen, or damaged Christmas gifts?

Some Insurers Will Cover Christmas Gifts as Standard

Some insurers will provide additional cover for Christmas gifts, even if their combined value exceeds your policy’s existing cover limit.

At James Hallam, our High Value Home Insurance policies include the following forms of cover:

  • Extended cover around special and religious events: This means that you will automatically be covered for any high value items you bring into your house not just for Christmas, but for other special occasions, including birthdays, weddings, and other religious events, such as Ramadan, Diwali and Hannukah.
  • Extended cover for newly acquired items: We understand that new acquisitions may push the value of your home’s contents beyond your cover limits, which is why we automatically extend cover for newly acquired items. This can include Christmas gifts.

How Long Do I Have to Inform my Insurer of a Gift?

When it comes to new acquisition cover, usually you would have to update your policy after a certain grace period has elapsed in order to get full cover for any new items you bring into your home. But as Christmas gifts will only be in your home for a temporary period, then you probably will not have to update your policy to get the cover you need unless you receive a high value gift yourself. New items and gifts will usually be restricted to 90 days, after which you should formally notify your insurer to have your cover increased.

For more information, please check your policy wording.

If You Need To Make a Claim For Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Christmas Gifts

If your Christmas gifts are lost, stolen, or damaged, then your insurers will want to know exactly what you have lost, along with the exact value of each item.

This is why it is a good idea to keep an inventory of any Christmas gifts you bring into your home. You should also retain any receipts or invoices for each item, so that you can demonstrate each item’s value.

Not All Insurers Offer Cover For Christmas Gifts As Standard

Also bear in mind that, if you are not insured with James Hallam, then your insurer may not offer the same extended cover for special occasions or new acquisitions as we do.

If your insurer does not cover Christmas gifts as standards, then you may have to take out temporary extended cover for the Christmas period. Your insurer will probably need an inventory of all of the additional high value items you bring into your home, along with the specific value of each item.

Get The Cover You Need This Christmas From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your property.

Our High Value Home Insurance policies will cover your Christmas gifts as standard, so you can have total peace of mind that you will be covered should anything go wrong over Christmas, and beyond.

Find out how we can help you today.

Keeping Shepherd’s Huts Warm in Winter: Insulation and Heating Options
Keeping Shepherd’s Huts Warm in Winter: Insulation and Heating Options 1000 750 James Hallam

With the right design, heating, and insulation, a shepherd’s hut can remain warm and toasty even through the coldest winter months.

In this post we will outline the best and most efficient ways to keep your shepherd’s hut warm in winter.

Insulating Your Sheperd’s Hut For Winter

If you invest in proper insulation for your shepherd’s hut, you can attain a steady and comfortable indoor temperature all year round. This means that, as well as keeping your hut warm in winter, good insulation can also keep your hut cool in the summer.

Insulation works through trapping warm air inside the hut. Without insulation, it will take much longer to heat your hut to a comfortable temperature, as a lot of the warm air will leak to the outside. Also, without adequate insulation, the hut will get cold again pretty quickly the moment you turn the heating off.

Ways to Insulate Your Shepherd’s Hut

You have a number of options for insulating your shepherd’s hut:

  • Foam – Rigid foam boards may offer the highest thermal resistance of any insulation. But this may cost more than other options.
  • Fibreglass – This may be the most affordable insulation choice, as well as the easiest to install.
  • Sheep’s wool – The most eco-friendly insulation option. Sheep’s wool is breathable, meaning it will retain moisture as well as heat. This can help prevent dampness in your hut, which can greatly improve your hut’s thermal performance.

Eliminating Heat Loss – Floor, Walls, and Roof

When it comes to insulation, most people will target the hut’s walls. This makes sense, as the walls have the greatest surface area, and thus may contribute the most to heat loss. But remember that heat rises, which is why it is equally important to insulate the hut’s roof.

Multi-layer insulation can help prevent heat from escaping through the hut’s roof. For a greener option that can also add a touch of character, you could consider applying a layer of sustainable turf to your hut’s roof.

Heat can also escape through the hut’s floor. A layer of underfloor insulation can help prevent this. But insulated mats, or even thick rugs or carpets, can also help.

Draught-Proofing Your Shepherd’s Hut

Your hut’s windows and doors will also contribute to heat loss. Insulated doors and double-glazed windows can make a huge difference.

If your hut is a new build, it may already have double-glazed windows fitted. But if it is an older model, it may still have single-glazed windows. These can let in drafts while allowing heat to escape, which can make it much harder to heat your hut and to keep it warm. Replacing single-glazed panes with double-glazed will make a noticeable difference.

How to Heat Your Shepherd’s Hut in Winter

You have a range of options for heating your shepherd’s hut:

  • Stoves – Many will choose the rustic charm of a traditional wood-burning stove. But for a more versatile option, choose a multi-fuel stove. This will give you the ability to burn a number of different fuels, which can help you manage your hut’s running costs.
  • Electric heaters – An electric heater can quickly warm your hut at the touch of a button. These are only really an option if the hut is connected to the grid, though. Plus, they can use up a lot of power, which means you might be looking at relatively high running costs compared to a stove.
  • Underfloor heating – This might be more difficult and expensive to install than other heating options. But an underfloor heating system is unobtrusive, which could help you make the most of the limited space inside your hut.

The combination of a heating system and good insulation will help keep your hut warm even on the coldest days of the year.

Whichever heating system you choose, make sure it is properly installed, with adequate ventilation where necessary. It is also important to keep on top of maintenance.

It’s also important to be aware that a number of insurance exclusions and conditions apply to the use of open fires and barbeques, and leaving a shepherd’s hut empty over the winter months.*

The Cosy Touch For A Cosy Shepherd’s Hut Experience

Finally, there are a few finishing touches that will make your hut feel extra cosy in the winter.

A heated towel rack can provide its own source of heat, while also giving you somewhere to warm your socks and other items of clothing, so that they feel extra toasty when you put them on.

If you rent your shepherd’s hut to guests, you could provide blankets, sachets of hot chocolate, and even jumpers and slippers.

Get The Insurance You Need For Your Shepherd’s Hut

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We will ensure you get full cover for your shepherd’s hut, whether you use it yourself, or you let it out to holidaymakers.

Learn more about our specialist shepherd’s hut insurance and get a free quote today.

*Insurance Exclusions and Conditions

Open Fires and Barbeques 

We will not pay any loss or damage as a result of you using a barbeque, wood or log burner, or any other form of open fire within 3 feet of the shepherd’s hut. You must ensure that all sources of ignition are removed from the shepherd’s hut whilst unattended.

 

Draining Down – Water 

From 1 November to 31March (both dates inclusive), when the shepherds hut has been unattended for more than 7 consecutive days, we will not pay for loss or damage unless the water has been turned off at the stopcock within the shepherd’s hut and the water system drained down.

 

Shepherds’ Huts Fire Protection 

  • We will not pay for any loss or damage to your building unless:
  • Wood / log burners are installed by a HETAS approved person.
  • Chimneys and flues are kept clean and well maintained as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Chimneys are to be swept at least twice per year by an approved person.
  • A fireguard is always used to protect against flying sparks and hot embers.
  • Logs are stored at least 6 feet away from the wood burner.
  • Wood burner is extinguished and left to cool for a period of 30 minutes prior to the building becoming unattended.
  • All clothing, fabric and other flammable items are always kept at least 3 feet away.
  • All shepherds huts have a fire extinguisher and fire blanket installed.

 

Quad Bike & ATV Maintenance Tasks
Quad Bike & ATV Maintenance Tasks 1000 667 James Hallam

If you own a quad bike or ATV, and you use it for agricultural purposes, then you may choose to carry out your own servicing and maintenance.

In this post we will outline some key quad bike and ATV maintenance tasks, to help you design and implement your own ongoing servicing and maintenance schedule.

Benefits of Regular Quad Bike & ATV Maintenance

There are a number of reasons why you should commit to regular servicing and maintenance:

  • Prevent breakdowns – Ongoing servicing and maintenance will keep your quad bike or ATV running at its best. You will spot potential problems as early as possible, which means you can fix them long before they cause you any real issues.
  • Boost safety – Regular maintenance will help prevent tyre blowouts, engine overheating, and other potentially dangerous issues that could jeopardise your safety as a rider.
  • Increase longevity – Staying on top of servicing and maintenance will help prolong the lifetime of your vehicle. You can enjoy years of reliable service while saving money on costly repairs and replacements.

How Often Should You Service Your Quad Bike or ATV?

There is no set period of time when you have to have your ATV serviced but there are some checks you should perform every day, or at least, each time you use your quad bike. There are other checks that you should perform monthly, quarterly, or annually.

But your specific servicing and maintenance schedule could vary depending on:

  • The specific vehicle you are using – an older model might require more servicing than a new model, for example.
  • How often you ride.
  • Your riding conditions – for instance, extreme temperatures, muddy fields, and inclement weather could make more frequent services necessary.

Daily Quad Bike & ATV Maintenance Tasks

You do not necessarily have to perform these checks every single day. Rather, these are the sort of checks you should make every time you use your quad bike or ATV, before you set out.

  • Check the vehicle from every angle for any signs of wear and tear, paying particular attention to the tyres for punctures, gouges, or swelling.
  • Check the tyre pressure before every ride, and adjust it accordingly in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Listen to the engine for any unusual noises, and monitor the exhaust fumes for any unusual emissions or smells.

Monthly Quad Bike & ATV Maintenance Checks

  • Check the oil levels, and top them up if necessary.
  • Check the air filter, and aim to clean it or replace it every 500 miles or 25 hours of use.
  • Inspect all of the vehicle’s bolts and hinges, and tighten them where necessary.
  • Check the tension and lubrication of any of the vehicle’s chains and belts, and adjust and lubricate accordingly.

Quarterly Quad Bike & ATV Maintenance Checks

  • Lubricate all chains and cables.
  • Inspect the brakes for tension, and for any signs of wear.
  • Check the spark plugs, and aim to replace them after every 1,000 miles of riding.
  • Inspect the shock and suspension components, and look out for any leaks or cracks.

Annual Quad Bike & ATV Maintenance

  • Get a full oil change at least once a year. Oil can break down over time, which can increase the wear on your quad or ATV’s engine.
  • It is also a good idea to fully replace the vehicle’s transmission fluid at least once a year.
  • You should also aim to fully clean or replace the air filter and spark plugs at least once a year, if not sooner, depending on how often you ride.
  • Inspect the vehicle’s carburettor, and adjust the air-fuel mixture screw as necessary.

Get Specialist Quad Bike Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your assets.

If you use your vehicle in connection with agricultural work or shoots, we can provide specialist ATV insurance that will cover you for all risks at a competitive price. You can also get additional benefits if you are a BASC member.

Learn more about our dedicated ATV and quad bike insurance services.

 

Beach Hut Winter Maintenance Checklist
Beach Hut Winter Maintenance Checklist 1000 667 James Hallam

We recently published a guide to beach hut summer maintenance, which discussed how you can get your beach hut ready for the high season. In this post we will explore beach hut winter maintenance, with a checklist of tasks that will help you safely “close down” your hut for the winter months.

Why You Need to Winterise Your Hut

Taking care of any repairs or renovations now will make it less likely that you will have to make some more serious repairs in future. In winter, you could face:

  • High winds, heavy rains, low temperatures – unless you take the time to prepare, winter weather could cause some serious damage to your hut.
  • Risk of crime and theft – Remove any high value items that thieves may target while the area is less busy is an important part of winterising your hut.
  • Becoming a target of vandalism – Vandals may be more likely to target huts that look run-down and weatherbeaten.

Beach Hut Winter Maintenance Checklist

  1. Cleaning and Decluttering

You have heard of a spring clean? Well, now it is time for an autumn clean:

  • Remove all valuables, belongings, and perishables from your hut.
  • Give every surface a thorough clean. This will help prevent the build-up of mould and mildew over the winter, while also making next year’s spring clean a little easier.
  • Remember to secure any outdoor valuables too, such as furniture or BBQs.
  1. Repairing and Renovating

Prioritise small repairs now as it will help you avoid big repairs later:

  • Thoroughly inspect your hut for any potential issues
  • Look for leaks
  • Find and fix any loose fittings
  • Identify any signs of wear, tear, and rot
  • Oil hinges and other metal elements to help prevent rust
  1. Weatherproofing

Batten down the hatches! Look for ways to protect your hut from the harsh winter weather. This might involve:

  • Insulating the walls and ceiling, sealing any gaps in the windows and doors
  • Buying some shutters to protect any glass from sand and other debris.
  • Apply a fresh coat of weatherproof paint to the hut’s exterior, to protect it from the corrosive effects of sea salt.
  1. Security

Finally, think about ways you can keep your hut safe from criminals over the winter.

  • As we mentioned above, keeping your hut in pristine condition in itself could help deter vandals
  • Get extra locks for the exterior to make life harder for thieves
  • Remove any valuables to ensure that they will not find anything worth stealing even if they do break in
  1. Check Your Insurance

Your insurer may specify how you should care for your beach hut as a requirement of their specialist beach hut insurance policies. This might include taking certain measures to keep your hut safe from the elements, and from criminals, while it is unoccupied over the winter. It’s always recommended to:

  • Check your policy wording to make sure you are doing everything your insurer expects of you. If you do not, you may not be able to make a claim for damages should anything happen to your hut.
  • You could also use the end of the season as an opportunity to review your beach hut insurance. Are you getting all the cover you need, at a best price?

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who are committed to protecting your beach hut at a competitive price.

We provide a specialist beach hut insurance scheme and are experts in this market. We will endeavour to get full cover for your beach hut, no matter its size or location, and no matter how you use it, using our specialist beach hut scheme.

Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.

Leaving a House Unoccupied in Winter: Dos and Don’ts
Leaving a House Unoccupied in Winter: Dos and Don’ts 1000 667 James Hallam

Whether you are leaving your home unoccupied for a few days, a few weeks, or a few months, it is essential that you take steps to secure your property. This is particularly important over the winter months, when the low temperatures can make small problems escalate into major disasters.

In this post we will outline some of the things you should do when leaving your home unoccupied in winter, along with some things you should not do.

What To Do When Leaving Your House Unoccupied in Winter

DO Strengthen Your Security

Invest in home security solutions that will deter any potential thieves while making life difficult for them should they break in:

  • Get a safe or a strongbox for any valuables you will be keeping in your house while you are not around.
  • Get automatic floodlights for your exterior, along with visible CCTV cameras.
  • Also get a smart doorbell with an inbuilt camera. Some models can send automated alerts to your phone if they detect any suspicious activity.

DO Check Your Home Insurance

Take care to read your home insurance policy wording. Your cover may only apply if your home is occupied. So if you are leaving your home unoccupied for more than a month, or so, you could invalidate your home insurance policy.

If your home will be unoccupied for an extended period:

  • Check on the property as often as you can, and try to spend at least one night a month there. This will mean that your home was technically “occupied” that month, which could help you avoid invalidating your insurance.
  • If you are not around to check on or occupy the property yourself, ask a friend or a family member to do it for you. You could also hire a professional house sitter (though you may have to tell your insurer about this).
  • If you know your home will be unoccupied for a long-term period, but nobody will be around to check on or inhabit the property, then you will need some dedicated unoccupied home insurance.

What Not To Do When Leaving Your House Unoccupied in Winter

DO NOT Advertise That Your Home Will Be Empty

Thieves may specifically target your home if they know it will be unoccupied. So try not to make it obvious that you will not be around:

  • If you are going on holiday, avoid talking about it on social media. If you do so, do not mention the specific dates when you will be away.
  • Arrange for your post to get redirected while you are away, to prevent undirected mail from accumulating.
  • Ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your property while you are away. You could also ask them to put your bins out and take them in again, to make it look like you are still around.

DO NOT Turn The Utilities Off

You might think that you can entirely eliminate the risk of leaks, escape of water, and electrical fires if you disconnect all of the utilities while you are away. However, during the winter months, this is a bad idea.

If you do not heat your home over the winter, your pipes could freeze. When pipes freeze, they expand and crack. This could cause severe damage to your plumbing and your boiler, and could also make leaks and floods more likely.

Instead:

  • Set your thermostat to at least 12.5°C for as long as you are away, to prevent your pipes from freezing.
  • If you have a timer, set your heating to come on at around 14°C during the coldest parts of the day – the early mornings and late nights.
  • Keep your electricity running so that you will be able to power all of your essential home security systems.

You may resent running up utility bills while you are away. But the cost of your bills will be a lot less than the potential costs of fixing leaky pipes and damaged boilers.

Get Comprehensive Home Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in protecting your assets. Talk to us, and we can give you expert risk management advice on keeping your home safe while it is unoccupied over the winter. We can also help you get the specialist, comprehensive home insurance you need for as long as you need it.

Find out how we can help you today.

Where Can I Put My Shepherd’s Hut?
Where Can I Put My Shepherd’s Hut? 1000 666 James Hallam

If you buy a shepherd’s hut, are there any rules about where you can, and cannot, put it?

In this post we will outline the regulations, along with some best practices guidelines, for where you might put your shepherd’s hut.

Do I Need Planning Permission For a Shepherd’s Hut?

If you buy a shepherd’s hut and you intend to put it on your own land, there may be some scenarios when you do not need planning permission:

  • If the hut is just for garden use – If only you and your family will be using the hut, whether as storage space, as extra living space, or as a garden office, then you may not need planning permission.
  • If the hut is a temporary structure – If the hut is not fixed on the land – if it has wheels, for instance, or no permanent foundations – then it may be considered a temporary structure. Temporary structures typically do not require planning permission.

When Do You Need Planning Permission For a Shepherd’s Hut?

There are some occasions when you may need to get planning permission:

  • If the hut is a full-time dwelling – If the hut is to be used as a permanent or a main residence, then planning permission may be necessary.
  • If you will be letting the hut – Planning permission may also be necessary if you intend to allow members of the public to use your hut as a holiday let.
  • Boundaries and protected land – If you live in a conservation area, or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, then you may need to get planning permission for any changes you make to your property. Similarly, you may need permission if you buy a larger hut, or if you intend to place it near your property’s boundaries.

In any case, whether or not you need planning permission may ultimately depend on the local authority’s specific rules.

Read our full guide to planning permission and shepherd’s huts.

Is It Legal to Put a Shepherd’s Hut on My Own Property?

If you want to put your shepherd’s hut on your own land, first make sure it is legal for you to do so. To do this, you need to consider:

Land Ownership
You must legally own the land you intend to place the hut. If you share the land, or if you are leasing it, you will first need permission from any other landowners. And as we said above, you may need to get permission if you wish to place the hut near your property boundaries. You may also need to consider access rights, particularly if you are placing the hut on agricultural land, or near somebody else’s property.

Shepherd’s Hut Size
Generally speaking, your shepherd’s hut must not exceed 2.5 metres in height if you are placing it within two metres of a boundary. Also, the hut should not fill more than 50% of the available land outside of your house. If the size of your hut means you do not meet these requirements, then you may need to get permission before you can install the hut.

Utility Connection
If your shepherd’s hut will have gas, electricity, and running water, then you will need to ensure that everything complies with all relevant safety standards.

Shepherd’s Hut Usage
Once again, if you intend to let the hut to holidaymakers, then you may need to register the hut for business use with your local council. As part of this, you may have to ensure your hut complies with all relevant business and tax regulations for your area.

Can You Put a Shepherd’s Hut on Agricultural Land?

You can put your shepherd’s hut on agricultural land. But depending on how you intend to use the hut, you may need to get permission first.

If you will be using the hut for agricultural purposes – to store equipment, for example, or as accommodation for agricultural workers – then you may not need any permission.

Yet if you intend to use the hut for any other purposes, even if it is just as a place for you and your family to hang out, then you may need to get change of land use approval. If you want to let your home to holidaymakers, for example, you will probably have to register the land for commercial use.

Finally, as we mentioned above, if the agricultural land is part of a protected area, there may be strict regulations in place for what you can and cannot do with the land.

Contact your local authority for more information about putting shepherd’s huts on agricultural land.

Getting The Right Insurance For Your Shepherd’s Hut

The way you use your shepherd’s hut – and where you put it – can affect the sort of cover you will need for your property.

If your shepherd’s hut is in your back garden, and it is for garden use only, then it is possible that your existing home insurance policy will extend to covering your shepherd’s hut. Check your policy wording to be sure, though.

But if you will be using your shepherd’s hut for agricultural or business purposes – such as to rent it out to holidaymakers – then you will need specialist shepherd’s hut insurance to cover the added risks you will face.

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who specialise in getting you the cover you need at a competitive price.

We will ensure you get full cover for your shepherd’s hut, wherever you build it, and however you use it.

Learn more about our specialist shepherd’s hut insurance and get a free quote today.

Quad Bike (ATV) Farm Uses and Equipment
Quad Bike (ATV) Farm Uses and Equipment 1000 664 James Hallam

Quad bikes and ATVs have a range of agricultural applications. In this post we will outline some of the common quad bike and ATV farm uses, along with some of the equipment that might help you make the most of your vehicle.

Why Are Quad Bikes So Useful on Farms?

Farmers and other agricultural and land workers rely on quad bikes for a variety of reasons:

  • Affordability – They cost a lot less to buy, and to run, than many other vehicles. They are highly durable and very low maintenance, meaning they can cost less to service in the long-term too.
  • Versatility – Their small size yet high traction and manoeuvrability makes them robust and reliable for a range of farmyard tasks.
  • Ease of Use – Quad bikes are relatively easy to use, and the licencing requirements are not as stringent as they are for other vehicles.

Key Quad Bike and ATV Farm Uses

  • Transport – If you have a lot of land, your quad bike or ATV can help you get from one place to another quickly and easily. Their off-road capabilities make getting around even easier. Add a trailer, and you can use your quad bike or ATV to transport tools, supplies, and equipment, or to complete fencing projects.
  • Herding – Some farmers use quad bikes and ATVs to manage their livestock – for herding, or for catching cattle for tagging and vaccinations.
  • Crop management – With the right equipment, you can use your quad bike or ATV to spread seeds, to mow and rake grass, and to harrow and plough fields.

Farm Equipment For Quad Bikes and ATVs

Certain pieces of equipment are specifically designed to help you adapt ATVs and quad bikes for agricultural work. These might include:

  • Mowers – For maintaining lawns and fields. You can get mowers to mount to the front or the back of your vehicle, along with specialist strimmers for the edges of fields. You can also attach a rake or a collector to clear land of leaves and debris prior to mowing, or to collect mown grass afterwards.
  • Diggers – Small, independently powered diggers for digging trenches or ditches, or for moving earth or gravel. Depending on your requirements, the digger can have full 360 movement, and even a cab.
  • Harrows – Available in a range of sizes to help prepare your fields for seeding.
  • Spreaders and sprayers – For spreading salt, grit, or fertiliser, and for spraying crops.
  • Trucks and trailers – For transporting tools, equipment, and materials across your land. It is also possible to get specialist forestry trailers for ATVs, some of which are capable of carrying up to two tonnes of logs.

Make sure that any equipment you use is expressly designed for use with quad bikes and ATVs. If not, the equipment might not work like it should, or it could even compromise your safety.

Is Your Quad Bike Or ATV Covered For Agricultural Use?

If you ever take your quad bike or ATV on public roads, then you have a legal duty to get at least third party vehicle insurance. But even if you are strictly using your vehicle off-road, you should still get insurance to cover your vehicle for loss, theft, or damage.

You will have to tell your insurer about any additional attachments or equipment you get for your quad bike or ATV. Some attachments may fundamentally alter the way you use your vehicle, or they may expose you or others to additional risks. This may affect the amount you pay for your cover.

Read our full guide to quad bike insurance for farmers.

Get Specialist Quad Bike Insurance From James Hallam

James Hallam is an independent Lloyd’s broker with a dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals who care about protecting your assets.

We provide specialist ATV insurance if you use your vehicle in connection with agricultural work or shoots. You can also get additional benefits if you are a BASC member.

Learn more about our dedicated ATV and quad bike insurance services.

 

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