Insurers issue flood advice as weather warnings continue

Wednesday, 13 June 2012 10:56

By Kay Carson

Insurers are offering advice to consumers after parts of Wales and the South West of England were hit by torrential rain, leaving homes flooded and schools closed.

Forecasters are predicting further heavy downpours, with up to five inches of rain expected to fall in some areas by the end of this week.

The Met Office has issued weather warnings today for parts of Wales, West and South West England, with a risk of localised flooding. It has also released flood warnings for the South East and Anglian regions.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) said anyone who has suffered flood damage to their property or contents should contact their home insurer as soon as possible.

Most will have 24 hour emergency helplines, which can give advice on next steps and arrange repairs.

The ABI said people should not be in a rush to throw away damaged items, unless they are a danger to health, as these may be able to be repaired or restored and their insurer will advise.

It added that household buildings and contents policies will cover flood and storm damage, including that caused by storm winds. If the property is uninhabitable, the insurer will usually pay for temporary accommodation while it is being repaired.

Aidan Kerr, head of property at the ABI, said: “Insurers know how traumatic and disruptive flooding can be and their priority will be to work quickly to help affected customers.

“Unexpected events like these are why people take out insurance and customers should contact their insurer as soon as possible for help and assistance to get claims moving quickly.”

 

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