Former Lloyd's underwriter Quinton Lovis has launched a million pound claim for damages after his 17th century Grade II listed country house was burnt down, revealed a report.
Lovis and his family allege their washing machine overheated, causing the fire, which gutted the £500,000 house in Aldersham, near Colchester in Essex. The fire occurred in February 1999.
The report said Lovis was now suing the washing machine's manufacturer Hoover, and Dixons, the company it was purchased from, for compensation.
Lovis worked as a Lloyd's motor underwriter for 15 years.
Hoover and Dixons both deny liability for the fire. The hearing continues at the High Court.
