The old thatched roof might look stunning but it poses an extra risk in heatwave conditions.
Woodgate & Clark, one of the U.K.’s leading loss adjusters with specialist expertise in heritage and high net worth properties is urging the insurance market to be vigilant for thatched roof fires.
After a long period of dry, hot days, a fully dry thatch is more likely to catch fire from small sparks. To mitigate this risk, Woodgate & Clark would like to see homeowners encouraged to dampen their roof if they can so that it isn’t bone dry and to consider specialist fire-retardant treatment. Around 60,000 of the UK’s housing stock has thatched roofs and 75% of these are listed buildings.
While thatch is designed to shed water, this makes it difficult to extinguish in a fire. There are between 50 and 80 serious fires each year at thatched properties . In addition, fireworks and other external sources contribute to 18% of thatched roof fires.
Richard Wilson, Director of Specialist Services at Woodgate and Clark said: “Thatched roof fires are most common in Autumn and Winter as they tend to start from the chimney, but after this sustained period of hot, dry weather in the UK, there is a concern that a spark from a barbecue or outside fire could easily ignite the thatch. Once a thatch has caught fire it spreads very quickly.
“A fire-retardant treatment should be applied the outside of the thatch to protect it from embers and sparks from chimneys, fireworks, and UV rays. This should be done every five to seven years and can go a long way to prevent a disastrous fire at any time of year.”
Historic England carried out a three-year research programme and offers guidance on reducing risk.
Be the first to comment