• Boost your kerb appeal: Small changes that could help your mortgage application

    Boost your kerb appeal: Small changes that could help your mortgage application

    This article was published on 17 December 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Applying for a mortgage? Your property’s kerb appeal could make a difference. Lenders and valuers often consider how well a home is maintained when assessing its value. The good news? You don’t need a huge budget, just a few smart changes can make a difference.

    What is kerb appeal?

    Kerb appeal is all about how inviting your home looks from the street. Picture a potential buyer arriving for a viewing, what’s their first impression as they stand outside?

    The condition of your brickwork, the tidiness of your front garden, and even the look of your front door all contribute to that initial wow factor.

    Why kerb appeal matters for mortgage applications

    Mortgage lenders often send a valuer to assess your property. A well-maintained exterior signals care and stability, which can support a higher valuation.

    Five easy kerb appeal tips to boost property value

    1. Refresh your front door

    Your front door sets the tone. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral or modern shade can instantly elevate your home’s look. Upgrade door hardware for a sleek finish.

    2. Tidy up the garden

    First impressions count. Mow the lawn, trim hedges and add potted plants or seasonal flowers. A neat garden suggests a well-cared-for property.

    3. Clean and repair pathways

    Dirty or cracked paths can drag down your home’s appeal. Power-wash driveways and replace broken paving stones for a clean, safe entrance.

    4. Update house numbers and lighting

    Clear, stylish house numbers and outdoor lighting improve both aesthetics and security. Solar lights can be relatively affordable and eco-friendly.

    5. Declutter the exterior

    Remove old bins, broken furniture, and unused garden tools. A clutter-free exterior creates a sense of space and order.

    Quick kerb appeal checklist

    • Paint front door
    • Trim garden
    • Clean driveway
    • Upgrade lighting
    • Remove clutter

    FAQs

    Q: Does kerb appeal really affect mortgage approval?
    Yes, valuers consider property condition when assessing value, which can influence your mortgage offer.

    Q: How much should I spend on kerb appeal improvements?
    Most changes cost under £150 paint, plants and cleaning supplies go a long way.

    Q: Can kerb appeal help sell my home faster?
    It could do as a well-presented exterior attracts buyers and may lead to quicker sales.

    A great kerb appeal doesn’t just make your home more attractive to potential buyers, it can also have a positive impact on your finances. As Daniel Mumford, Managing Director at Grange Mortgage and Protection Services Limited, explains:

    “A great kerb appeal not only makes your house more enticing to prospective purchasers if you’re looking to sell, but could also increase the value of your home. If you’re considering re-mortgaging, this added value could mean you have more equity and may qualify for cheaper interest rates going forward. This could equate to hundreds of pounds in savings over several years.”

    For more information on the Police Mutual Fee-Free mortgage advice service, provided by Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd click here.

    YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

    Sarah Blair

    ,

  • Home Insurance Explained: Buildings & Contents vs Contents Only

    Home Insurance Explained: Buildings & Contents vs Contents Only

    This article was published on 15 Dec 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    When it comes to protecting your home, choosing the right insurance can make all the difference. Whether you own or rent your property, understanding the difference between buildings and contents insurance vs contents insurance only helps ensure you’re properly covered if the unexpected happens.

    At Police Mutual, we know how important it is that you feel confident that your home and belongings are protected.

    What is Buildings Insurance?

    Buildings insurance covers the structure of your home. It typically protects against damage caused by fire, storms, floods and other insured events.

    Essentially, if something would stay behind when you move out, it’s usually covered by buildings insurance.

    Typical examples include:

    • The main structure of your home (walls, roof, windows, doors)
    • Permanent fixtures such as fitted kitchens, baths, and toilets
    • Garages, sheds, and fences (depending on the policy)

    If you own your home or have a mortgage, your lender will likely require you to have buildings insurance in place.

    What is Contents Insurance?

    Contents insurance covers your personal possessions, essentially everything that would fall out if you turned your home upside down.

    Standard examples include:

    • Furniture, clothing, and electricals
    • Carpets, curtains, and ornaments
    • Personal items such as jewellery, gadgets, and bikes

    Contents insurance protects against risks like theft, fire, or accidental damage (depending on your policy options).

    If you’re a lodger or renting, you won’t usually need buildings cover but contents insurance is still important to protect your belongings.

    Choosing the Right Cover for You

    When deciding, think about:

    • Whether you own or rent your property
    • The value of your belongings
    • Your ability to repair or replace items after an incident

    Whether you need buildings and contents insurance or contents insurance only, having the right cover in place means peace of mind for you and your family.

    Learn more about Police Mutual Home Insurance

    Police Mutual Home Insurance is provided by Bspoke Underwriting Ltd.

    Photo by Kara Eads on Unsplash

    Alex Mculty

  • Managing Your Energy Bills This Winter

    Managing Your Energy Bills This Winter

    This article was published on 13 Oct 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    As temperatures drop, many households feel the pressure of rising energy costs. Heating, lighting, and everyday appliances all add up – and for people all around the country including police officers, staff, and their families, managing energy bills this winter can be a real challenge.

    The good news is that there are plenty of practical steps you can take to keep your home warm, reduce your bills, and protect your wellbeing.

    Simple ways to reduce energy costs

    Making small changes to how you use energy at home can add up to big savings:

    • Turn your thermostat down by 1°C: This could cut your heating bill by around 10% while still keeping your home comfortable.
    • Block draughts: Draught excluders, rugs, or even rolled-up towels at the bottom of doors help keep heat in.
    • Use appliances efficiently: Wash clothes at 30°C, only boil the water you need in the kettle, and switch appliances off at the wall when not in use.
    • Make the most of natural light: Open curtains during the day to let in warmth, then close them in the evening to keep heat inside.

    Staying warm without overspending

    It’s important to strike the right balance between saving money and staying healthy:

    • Layer up indoors: Wearing extra layers and using blankets can help reduce the need for constant heating.
    • Focus on heating the rooms you use most: Shut doors and turn off radiators in unused rooms to concentrate warmth where you need it.
    • Consider hot water bottles or heated throws: Low-cost options to keep cosy without heating the whole house.

    Look after your wellbeing

    Cold homes can impact your physical and mental health, especially during the winter months. Staying warm and comfortable is just as important as saving money. If you’re struggling, check whether you qualify for government schemes or local support with energy costs.

    How Police Mutual can support you

    At Police Mutual, we’re here to support the financial and overall wellbeing of the police family. Alongside money-saving tips, we have information on different products that can help protect what matters most:

    Sarah Blair

  • You’re Not Alone…

    77% of Brits say they have a “designated side” of the bed and stick to it, so 23% like to switch it up!

    Can you relate to any more of these in your home?

    At Police Mutual, we’re proud of the numbers that matter most. This year, 90% of Home Insurance customers chose to renew with us, and we’re also rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot. But don’t just take our word for it – see what our customers have to say…

    “I contacted Police Mutual regarding the renewal of my House Insurance policy. I spoke with Susan Stott who was very thorough. My policy was reviewed completely and updated which resulted in the premium being reduced which was very much appreciated.” Andrew  – September 2025

    “The completion of the application on the website was intuitive and logical, I subsequently contacted Police Mutual by phone to add an item I had forgotten and found the agent friendly, professional and helpful. All in all, a pleasant experience.” Brian – August 2025

    “The whole process was very easy, the website was easy to use, which is always a pleasant surprise! And the customer service on the phone is fantastic!” Josh – August 2025

    Learn more about Police Mutual Home Insurance and see how we can help protect your home today.

    YTD retention rate 91.3% on 16.07.25

    Photo by KATRIN  BOLOVTSOVA.

    Sarah Blair

  • Leaky Pipes and Hidden Costs: What Every Homeowner Should Know

    Leaky Pipes and Hidden Costs: What Every Homeowner Should Know

    This article was published on Mon 1 September 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    As the seasons shift and temperatures fluctuate, your home’s plumbing system can come under pressure. Leaky pipes might seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can quickly spiral into costly repairs and long-term damage.

    At Police Mutual, we’ve pulled together some handy tips so you can stay ahead of these issues, to protect your home and give your peace of mind.

    Why leaky pipes are more than just a drip

    A small leak might not seem urgent, but over time it could lead to:

    • Structural damage to walls, floors, and ceilings
    • Mould and mildew growth, which can affect health
    • Increased water bills from unnoticed leaks
    • Damage to personal belongings and furniture

    What’s more, leaks often go unnoticed until the damage is done, especially in colder months when pipes are more likely to freeze and burst.

    Common signs of a leak

    Spotting a leak early can save you time and money. Keep an eye out for:

    • Damp patches or discolouration on walls or ceilings
    • A musty smell in certain rooms
    • Unexplained increases in your water bill
    • Low water pressure or strange noises in the pipes

    If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth investigating further or calling a professional plumber.

    Seasonal risks to watch out for

    Autumn and winter bring added risks. Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and crack, especially in unheated areas like lofts or garages. Insulating your pipes and keeping your heating on a low setting, even when you’re away, can help prevent this.

    Protecting your home with insurance

    Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. That’s where Police Mutual Home Insurance comes in. Designed with the needs of the police community in mind, our cover helps protect your home from unexpected damage, including escape of water and burst pipes.

    Don’t let a small leak turn into a big problem.
    Learn more about Police Mutual Home Insurance and see how we can help protect your home today.

    Photo by Andrew Valdivia on Unsplash.

    Sarah Blair

  • Storm-proofing your Home for Summer Weather Surprises

    Storm-proofing your Home for Summer Weather Surprises

    This article was published on 23 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Summer in the UK isn’t all sunshine and barbecues. Unexpected storms, heavy rain, and high winds can strike with little warning.

    Preparing your home for these seasonal surprises could be essential to:

    • protecting your property;
    • reducing damage; and
    • ensuring peace of mind.

    At Police Mutual, we’ve pulled a guide together on how to storm-proof your home this summer, with practical tips and smart upgrades that can make all the difference.

    Inspect and maintain your roof

    Your roof is your first line of defence against the elements. Check for loose or missing tiles, signs of wear, and blocked gutters. Regular maintenance can prevent leaks and water damage during sudden downpours.

    Secure windows and doors

    High winds can turn unsecured windows and doors into weak points. Install storm shutters or use impact-resistant glass where possible. Reinforce door frames and check seals to prevent water ingress.

    Clear gutters and drains

    Blocked gutters and drains can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation, increasing the risk of flooding. Clean them regularly and consider installing gutter guards to keep debris out.

    Trim trees and secure outdoor items

    Overhanging branches and unsecured garden furniture can become dangerous projectiles in bad weather. Trim trees back from your home and store or anchor outdoor items when bad weather is forecast.

    Install a backup power supply

    Power outages are possible during summer storms. A backup generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can keep essential appliances running and your home safe.

    Review your home insurance

    Even with the best preparation, storms can cause unexpected damage. That’s why it’s important to have comprehensive home insurance. It’s worth checking your policy to ensure it reflects your current needs and any recent home improvements.

    Reach out to Police Mutual for your Home Insurance needs

    Protecting your home from severe weather doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few proactive steps, you can help protect your property, reduce repair costs, and enjoy a safer, more secure summer, no matter what the weather brings.

    Need extra peace of mind? Make sure your home insurance is up to date and tailored to your lifestyle. A little preparation now can save a lot of stress later.

    If you’re looking to switch Home Insurance providers or needing to take out a policy for the first time, give us a call or apply online to get a quote in minutes.

    Sarah Blair

  • Getting Your Home Summer Ready: A Fresh Start for the Sunny Season

    Getting Your Home Summer Ready: A Fresh Start for the Sunny Season

    This article was published on 16 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your home a seasonal refresh. From brightening up interiors to preparing your garden for long evenings outdoors, a few simple steps can help you make the most of the warmer months. And while you’re sprucing things up, it’s also a smart moment to ensure your home is protected with the right insurance, like Police Mutual Home Insurance, designed with the needs of the police family in mind.

    1. Let the sunshine in

    Swap out heavy curtains for lighter fabrics and give your windows a thorough clean. Natural light not only lifts your mood but also makes your home feel more spacious and welcoming. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.

    2. Declutter and deep clean

    A clutter-free home feels cooler and more relaxing. Take time to store away winter items, donate what you no longer need, and give your home a deep clean. It’s also a good opportunity to check that your valuables are safely stored and properly covered, something Police Mutual Home Insurance can help with, offering protection tailored to your lifestyle.

    3. Refresh with summer colours

    Introduce light, airy tones like soft blues, whites, and pastels into your décor. Swapping out cushions, throws, and rugs can instantly give your home a fresh, summery feel without a full makeover.

    4. Get your garden summer-ready

    Tidy up your outdoor space by mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and planting colourful flowers. Add some outdoor lighting or a seating area to create a relaxing retreat. If you’ve invested in new garden furniture or equipment, make sure it’s included in your home insurance policy. Police Mutual offers cover that includes outdoor items, giving you peace of mind.

    5. Check cooling systems

    Before the heat hits, test your fans and if you have one, air conditioning units. Clean filters and ensure everything is working efficiently. It’s also a good time to check your smoke alarms and security systems, keeping your home safe and cool all summer long.

    6. Review your home insurance

    Summer often means more activity at home, barbecues, guests, and time spent outdoors. It’s wise to review your home insurance to ensure you’re fully covered. Police Mutual Home Insurance offers comprehensive protection, including accidental damage, helping you enjoy the season without worry.

    7. Create a summer sanctuary

    Designate a space to unwind—whether it’s a shaded garden nook, a sunny reading corner, or a breezy balcony.

    Reach out to Police Mutual for your Home Insurance needs

    Getting your home summer-ready is about more than just aesthetics, it’s about creating a space that feels safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. With a few thoughtful updates and the reassurance of Police Mutual Home Insurance, you can embrace the season with confidence and ease.

    If you’re looking to switch Home Insurance providers or needing to take out a policy for the first time, give us a call or apply online to get a quote in minutes.

    Sarah Blair

  • Going on Holiday? A Homeowner’s Checklist for Peace of Mind

    Going on Holiday? A Homeowner’s Checklist for Peace of Mind

    This article was published on 12 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Brought to you by Police Mutual

    Summer holidays are a time to relax, recharge, and escape the daily grind. Before you jet off, it’s worth taking a few simple steps to ensure your home is safe and secure while you’re away. Whether you’re heading to the coast or flying abroad, this checklist brought to you by Police Mutual Home Insurance will help you enjoy your break with total peace of mind

    Secure All Entry Points

    Before you leave, double-check that all doors and windows are locked, including:

    • Garage doors
    • Loft hatches
    • Side gates and sheds

    Consider installing smart locks or security cameras for added protection. These upgrades not only enhance your home’s security but may also be viewed favourably by your home insurance provider.

    Make It Look Like You’re Home

    An empty house can be a target. Here’s how to keep up appearances:

    • Use timers on lights to mimic your usual routine.
    • Ask a neighbour to collect post or use Royal Mail’s Keepsafe service.
    • Leave a car in the driveway if possible.

    Some policies, including Police Mutual Home Insurance, may have conditions around unoccupied homes so it’s worth checking your documents before you go. You can always give us a call to check anything over if you have any concerns.

    Minimise Fire and Water Risks

    Before you head off:

    • Unplug non-essential appliances.
    • Turn off water at the mains (especially if you’re away for more than a week).
    • Test your smoke alarms.

    Water damage is one of the most common Home Insurance claims*. Taking these steps can help prevent costly incidents and unnecessary stress.

    Review Your Home Insurance Policy

    Make sure your policy:

    • Covers unoccupied periods (some limit this to 30 days).
    • Includes accidental damage and theft.
    • Reflects any recent home improvements or high-value purchases.

    If you’re unsure, contact Police Mutual to review your cover. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

    Let Someone You Trust Know

    Leave a spare key with a trusted friend or neighbour and give them:

    • Your contact details
    • Alarm codes (if needed)
    • Instructions in case of emergency

    They can act quickly if something goes wrong, potentially saving you from a costly claim.

     Reach out to Police Mutual for your Home Insurance needs

    At Police Mutual, we understand the importance of protecting what matters most. By following this checklist, you can enjoy your holiday knowing your home is secure and your insurance is ready to support you if needed.

    If you’re looking to switch Home Insurance providers or needing to take out a policy for the first time, give us a call or apply online to get a quote in minutes.

    *Source: What are the most common home insurance claims in the UK? – Which?

    Sarah Blair

  • Car & Home Insurance – How do you Make Sure you get the Best Value for your Needs Compared to the Cost?

    Car & Home Insurance – How do you Make Sure you get the Best Value for your Needs Compared to the Cost?

    This article was published on 29 May 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Price increases and rising inflation are putting a lot of pressure on household finances. Many people are actively reviewing their finances and cutting back or eradicating expenditure where possible to make savings.

    Payments and prices will come under the spotlight. But it’s not always a case of searching out the lowest cost, you need to consider your personal needs and the value you want your policy to provide.

    Take insurance premiums for example. Car insurance is a legal requirement in the UK, but home insurance isn’t. So, at the extreme, someone could risk not insuring their home to save outgoings. But what a risk! Damage to the house structure or loss of home contents could be incredibly expensive to redress.

    So, how could you manage the amount you pay for your insurance whilst making sure it is still adequate for your needs? Options to look at could include opting to pay a higher excess in the event of a claim, or not covering your home contents for accidental damage. When considering options like this you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs that might arise in the event of a claim. For example, consider if you could afford to pay the higher excess in the event of a claim, or how you would replace items subject to accidental damage if you decided not to take that level of cover out with your policy. 

    Some insurance policies may promote a lower headline cost, but either not include certain elements that you personally would find useful or need, or make you pay extra for elements that you want to make use of.

    Examples include:

    • You might want to consider a car insurance policy that provides a courtesy car. If as a result of a claim your car needs to go in for repairs you would need to make arrangements to remain mobile for the period that your car is being repaired.
    • You might want to consider a home or car insurance policy that doesn’t charge to make changes during the time you hold the policy with the insurer. Changes you may need to make during the year could include mileage changes, address changes, insured driver changes and provision of duplicate documents. If your job or occupation changes, you might need to change your home or car insurance cover, for instance, if you become self-employed and work from home. If your policy charges for amendments these can add costs to your original premium paid.
    • You may want to review what policy extras you actually need, being mindful that you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs arising if you decided to exclude policy add-ons.
    • Specialist Police car insurance policies may or may not include protection for officers travelling to or from work in their car whilst carrying official kit such as their Police Uniform. If you are a serving officer, you may want to make sure your policy covers you for this.

    So, it pays to look beyond the headline cost and get a policy that works for you and your specific needs.

    Reviewing your policy could make sure you have a policy that meets your individual needs and help reduce the chances of you being hit with any unexpected costs.

    If you are reviewing your insurance premium costs as part of your household finances review, you may be interested to know that you don’t need to wait until your renewal date to review and switch your insurance policy.

    Even if you took out an annual policy paid upfront as a lump sum, you may be able get a refund on some of your premiums and switch to a new insurer of your choice. However, some insurance companies may apply a cancellation charge for moving away from them during the term of the policy. You can help protect yourself from these charges by moving to an insurer that will pay some or all of the cancellation fees charged by your old insurer.

    If you move your car or home insurance to Police Mutual, any cancellation fees charged by your old insurer up to a maximum of £125 will be paid. So you can move straight away without waiting till renewal time. To give you an idea of cancellation charges, the average cancellation charge levied in 2024 (after the 14-day cooling off period) for car insurance was £55,[1] and while there are no official figures for home insurance in 2024, it’s usually between £25 and £50, according to NimbleFins.[2] Your existing policy documents should tell you what your exact cancellation charge would be.

    You can check out Police Mutual Car & Home Insurance here.

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS and Police Mutual Home Insurance is provided by Bspoke Underwriting Ltd.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    [1] Average Cost to Cancel UK Car Insurance (2024) | NimbleFins

    [2] Home Cancellation Fees| NimbleFins

    Joanne Palmer

    ,

  • Spring has Sprung

    Spring has Sprung

    This article was published on 29 April 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Spring is the time of year that we dust off the winter blues, enjoy longer days and look forward to the return of sunshine. Traditionally spring also sees a boost to the mortgage market with potential buyers starting house hunts in earnest, or people looking to re-mortgage for home improvements. If you’re considering a house purchase this spring, here are some hints and tips to help you through the process.

    Consider your budget:

    Buying a home is an expensive business. It’s not just about getting a mortgage, you also need to consider the other costs associated with your move. Legal fees, surveys, stamp duty and removal costs are just a few so make sure you include these in your upfront budgeting. It’s also worth remembering the potential for rates to rise.

    Get a mortgage agreement in principle:

    Most lenders will offer a ‘mortgage agreement in principle’ – this confirms the amount you’ve specified to the lender which you believe you’ll need to borrow. This isn’t a guarantee to lending, as it’s subject to acceptance and completion of various checks and surveys. However, having an agreement in principle could give you an advantage when you’re putting in an offer on a property. You can research the mortgage market yourself but this can be very complex. Consider contacting a mortgage advisor who can help you find the deals you qualify for and guide you through the process.

    And don’t forget… If you choose to take out a mortgage with a fixed rate, that deal will come to an end after the period specified by the mortgage provider.

    Consider resale potential:

    If the property you’re buying is not going to be your forever home you need to consider how easy it will be to re-sell when you’re ready to move on. If a property has been on the market for a while think about why it hasn’t sold, is it the surrounding area or the layout of the property?

    Get the correct survey:

    The mortgage company will request a survey of the property but this is only for lending purposes and will not give you a full view of the condition of the property. To protect yourself, you should consider obtaining either a more detailed homebuyer’s report or a full structural survey, which is the most comprehensive of the three. These reports are more expensive but they’re very detailed and any problems they identify may help you negotiate the purchase price of the property.

    Arrange your home insurance:

    Before you exchange contracts you need to ensure that you have suitable home insurance in place – buildings insurance is mandatory for exchange. Shop around and get as many quotes as possible but remember to balance the cost of the policy against the benefits. Some of the cheapest policies may not offer the cover you need or have high excesses in the event of a claim.

    Police Mutual offer insurance to help you protect your home and belongings – to find out more and to get a quote click here.

    Should you move or improve?:

    If there is room for improvement, you might want to think about making changes to your current home rather than moving. Adding space can generally add value to your home. Do your research on what you might be able to add by speaking to local estate agents or looking at similar homes in the area. You may be able to fund smaller home improvements with savings but for larger projects you could consider talking to your existing mortgage provider about extending the loan or speaking to an independent mortgage adviser about a remortgage.

    You can find more information on the Police Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service here.

    Joanne Palmer