New research from Sainsbury’s Home Insurance reveals that 1.78 million homeowners are without buildings insurance and a further 656,000 people claim not to know whether they have this cover.

Following the recent storms battering the coastlines of the UK, homeowners are warned to check they have adequate buildings insurance to protect against storm damage.

Neil Laird, Home Insurance Manager, Sainsbury’s said: “Thousands of homes could be at risk from storms this week so it’s alarming to see so many without buildings insurance. The growing number of weather-related instances really highlights the importance of having adequate cover in this area and unlimited buildings cover ensures peace of mind that you won't be left underinsured should the unthinkable happen.”

The research suggests that female homeowners are far more likely to be without this cover than men. 1.055 million women (6%) admitted to not having buildings cover compared with 722,000 male homeowners (4%). On an age basis, interestingly, 8% of homeowners aged 65 and over and a further 8% of those aged between 25 – 34 admitted to not having buildings insurance – the highest percentage for any age group.

Surprisingly, when those homeowners without buildings insurance were asked why they did not have this cover, 39% said they felt it was not necessary. Only 2% said that they could not afford it.

The survey was conducted by GfK NOP for Sainsbury’s Finance. 712 homeowners were interviewed between 2nd and 4th November 2007.