While the recent looting and unrest that we've seen on our television screens has been largely confined to our cities, there is nevertheless the risk that any high value residential property could be attacked either by rioters or by criminal elements using other people's riotous behaviour as cover for their own activities.

Seven days to act

If your property is damaged by riot or civil commotion, it's likely you could be recompensed by the police for the costs involved in any repairs by making a claim under the Riot (Damages) Act 1886. This states that, where damage is caused by people "riotously and tumultuously assembled", local police authorities are required to compensate victims.

If the worst does happen and your property is damaged, you must inform us of the incident within seven (7) days, so that we can lodge your claim within the mandatory 14 days laid down by the Riot (Damages) Act.

We cannot stress enough how important this time-scale is. If your claim is late it will not be accepted. It's as simple as that.

Check your security measures

Clearly, it's equally important in these times of unrest to ensure that all your security measures are in place and that you remain vigilant at all times, particularly after dark.

We must hope that the current disturbances will soon be contained, and that we shall all be able to live our lives without fear of any further commotion.

August 10 2011