Dog owners warned over common error that can cost you £3,000

Dog owners could be handed a huge fine up to £3,000 for making a simple mistake at home. Many people across the UK have added one thing to their properties to make life a little easier for their pets.

But according to home and property experts Alan Boswell Group, adding a dog flap to your door may inadvertently invalidate your home home insurance. While they can be convenient, they can actually serve as an entry point for burglars.

Not installing dog flaps properly could put your home insurance at risk, resulting in potential costs of up to £3,000. Heath Alexander-Bew said: "Ensure your dog flap is professionally installed and secure.

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"Opt for lockable versions when you're away, and inform your insurer. This simple step can prevent losses and protect your coverage in case of a break-in.

"Ensuring that your home insurance is accurate and up-to-date is crucial as it safeguards not only your property, but also your financial stability. A well-maintained policy provides peace of mind by covering you against unforeseen risks and ensuring that, in times of crisis, you’re not left with unmanageable costs.

"Accuracy in your insurance details is not just a formality—it’s a vital step in protecting your home and your future." But that does not mean you should not bother with dog flaps, Express reports.

Having one can be a useful way to toilet train your dog so they can learn to go outside when they need to, which could avoid potential accidents or wakes during the night. According to Pets4homes, there are certain things to consider before having a flap installed.

If you do get one, it should not be used as a means to leave your dog alone for long periods or neglect their daily exercise. The pet site said: "If you are thinking about putting in a dog door, one of the most important considerations is the environment that your dog will emerge into on the other side of the door.

"Dogs are adept escape artists when it suits them, so unless the area the door opens into has a high, secure wall, the potential concern of escape or theft of your dog is a very real consideration. Additionally, you must think about what would happen if someone came into the enclosure for any reason - from needing to knock your door or deliver your post, to what might happen if a child decided to climb over to retrieve a ball-in terms of safety.

"Even very kind, welcoming dogs can be territorial, and one of the main issues here is that you will only have seen how this manifests when you yourself are present. Some of the nicest dogs can turn defensive when their owner is not present if someone else comes onto their territory, and you will be liable in this case for your dog’s actions.

"You should also think about how safe and sensible your dog will be about it all too - are they apt to try to get out, get into a problem or otherwise place themselves at risk without supervision outside? Finally, a larger dog flap or one that puts the locks of the door itself within reach can pose a potential security risk for your home, which may make you a target for burglary."