The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has issued a bulletin advising “anyone who has suffered flood damage as a result of the heavy rain that has so far hit Northern Ireland, Wales and south-west England to contact their insurer as soon as possible.”
Nick Starling, the ABI’s Director of General Insurance, noted: “Events like this are exactly why people take out insurance. Insurers plan for bad weather, and will have arrangements in place to minimize distress and inconvenience and help people recover as quickly as possible. Some, for example, will identify and contact their policyholders in areas affected to get any claim moving as quickly as possible.”
The bulletin listed the following steps that people affected by the heavy rains and floods should take:
– Contact their home insurer as soon as possible. Most will have 24-hour emergency help lines, which can give advice on next steps and arrange repairs as quickly as possible.
– If necessary, arrange temporary emergency repairs to stop any damage getting worse. Tell your insurer and keep any receipts, as this will form part of your claim.
– Don’t 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. Your insurer will advise.
It also pointed out that with the “risk of further flooding predicted, people should:
– Move whatever is possible and safe to do so to any upper floors.
– Make sure that you have emergency telephone contact numbers for your insurers, local authority and utility companies in a safe waterproof place.
– Listen out for flood warnings on local radio and TV
“Household buildings and contents policies will cover flood and storm damage. If your home is uninhabitable, your insurer will usually pay for temporary accommodation while it is being repaired.
“Motor insurance covers damage to vehicles under comprehensive policies. Again, contact your insurer as soon as possible to get your claim moving.
“Business insurance policies will cover storm damage to premises and stock. Business interruption cover (which may be included or purchased separately) will cover additional costs, such as hiring temporary premises, if needed.”
Source: Association of British Insurers
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