Wimbledon is back on court and back on our screens, prompting many to imitate their favourite players on their own garden lawns. And, while outdoor activities can help to improve fitness, Halifax Home Insurance is warning Wimbledon wannabes to ensure accidental damage does not damage their financial health.

The company has recorded that home insurance claims for broken windows and accidental glass breakage rose by 18 per cent last year and that the most likely tennis aces to send glass shattering were those living in the south east Birmingham and Solihull areas. People living in Harrow, Uxbridge and Wembley also experienced their fair share of glass damage while practicing their racquet skills.

Head of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, David Rochester, explained: “During the summer months we often notice an increase in claims for broken windows and other accidental breakages.”

Around 35,000 spectators are likely to attend Wimbledon 2008, which runs from June 23 to July 6, and a further 1.8 million viewers are expected to watch the competition on television.

It remains to be seen whether Swiss player Roger Federer can hold on as Men’s Singles Champion and Venus Williams can win the Women’s Singles title once again. However, whatever happens on centre court, Halifax Home Insurance is warning amateur players to make sure their home insurance policy includes accidental damage cover if they are to use their gardens to recreate on-court action.

“We’d advise any budding Murrays and Sharapovas to take care when playing ball sports close to home, and check they are insured for accidental damage should a mishap occur,” said Mr Rochester.

© Fair Investment Company Ltd