Home improvements made to cure “empty nest syndrome”

Many parents are undertaking makeovers on the family home as they try to deal with "empty nest syndrome" after their children leave, insurance provider Zurich has claimed.

According to the company’s research, 52 per cent of parents admit to missing their absent children and 53 per cent of these alter the look of their home to reflect the change in the family.

Another 42 per cent take more holidays and 36 per cent spend more quality time with their partner.

The most popular decorative change that parents pursue is to change their child’s room into a study or hobby space, with 32 per cent doing this, while 30 per cent simply redecorate the vacant room. However, ten per cent reportedly revamp the entire house.

"When adult children leave the family home, it’s understandably the end of an era for parents," said Martin Hall, head of personal lines underwriting at Zurich Insurance

"There’s a period of adjustment to go through and it seems that many parents respond by welcoming change to their lifestyles and homes. But don’t forget that it’s important to keep your insurance company or broker up to speed with any major improvements – just to make sure you’ll be covered."

Zurich also recommends that any people considering any major improvements hire a professional to help to ensure the work is done safely.