Mounting fire losses spark property rates hike fears

An increase in fire claims over the past 18 months, driven by changes in the law and the impact of the recession, could put more pressure on property rates, industry experts have warned.

Bernard Mageean, managing director of property at QBE's European operations, said: "There has been a noticeable change and an increase in the severity of losses, although frequency of fires is coming down. This is partly due to the fact that the fire and rescue services are focusing on containment, which means