New Zealand households are being urged to take extra care with heating appliances this winter as insurers report a seasonal rise in fire-related claims linked to colder weather.

According to AMI, fire claim volumes typically peak between May and October, with August recording the highest number of claims in recent years.

The insurer said heating sources are involved in nearly 16% of winter fire claims, compared with 6% during the rest of the year. Portable heaters, fireplaces, chimneys, electric blankets, and solid fuel burners were among the most common contributors to winter-related fires.

AMI said the average cost of a house fire claim last year was about $116,000. In cases where homes were declared total losses, average costs exceeded $680,000.

Steph Ferris (pictured), executive general manager claims at AMI, said winter fire risks often increase as households rely more heavily on heating equipment.

“Cooking is the leading cause of house fires year-round, but during winter we see a noticeable spike in fires involving heating equipment,” Ferris said.

She added that many winter fires involve combustible materials such as bedding, curtains, clothing, or stacked firewood being placed too close to heat sources. Electrical faults, overloaded switchboards, candles, and smoking materials were also identified as common causes.

The insurer said many incidents occur during winter weekends, particularly in the afternoon and evening when people are at home.

Despite the seasonal increase in heating-related incidents, AMI said cooking remains the leading cause of house fire claims throughout the year. Unattended cooking and overheated oil continue to feature prominently in kitchen fire claims.

AMI encouraged households to take preventative steps before winter, including servicing fireplaces and chimneys, checking electric blankets for hotspots, avoiding overloaded power outlets, and maintaining at least 1 m of clear space around heaters. The insurer also advised households to regularly test smoke alarms and keep fire extinguishers and fire blankets accessible.

The company urges households to review guidance from Fire and Emergency New Zealand on home fire hazards and prevention measures.