Home insurance customers who are leaving their windows open to stay cool during the hot summer weather are invalidating their insurance policies by doing so.

A survey conducted by insurance group Swinton found that 81% of insurance customers were not aware that leaving windows open or ajar when away from the house could invalidate their home insurance policy, while 71% admitted to doing so at some point during the last month. 23% of these reportedly did so to ensure the house was cooler for their pets while they were away.

Steve Chelton from Swinton said: "Each year there are thousands of burglaries as result of people not carrying out basic safety measures, such as locking window and doors. Even though the hot weather makes us relaxed, we should not become complacent with the safety of our homes. At Swinton we advise everyone to ensure that their windows and doors are locked before leaving the house, even if just popping out for a few minutes. Failing to carry out these preventative measures could invalidate home insurance, which will leave people severely out of pocket if burgled."