How to cope with the flooding fallout

Published 25th Jul 2007

With central England in crisis after further flooding caused untold damage alongside lack of power and running water, many people's thoughts will no doubt be beginning to turn to the issue of their insurance.

People in the affected areas are being urged to contact their insurance provider as soon as possible to get the ball rolling. Certain insurers operate a 24-hour helpline for policyholders, whilst others such as Direct Line have drafted in extra staff to work around the clock in response to the increased volume of emergency claims.

Emergency repairs are paramount if they will prevent further damage, however insurers recommend that any extensive or more permanent works should be avoided unless they have been agreed with the company beforehand.

Belongings and valuables should be moved upstairs and any furniture which cannot be lifted should be moved away from the walls. Homeowners should take photographs of the damage and all affected belongings and receipts should be kept until authorised for disposal by a loss adjuster.

Homeowners with homes in uninhabitable conditions should immediately check whether their insurance policy offers alternative accommodation. If staying in the house, avoid using non-essential electrical equipment and anything which has been damaged should be checked by a qualified tradesman before it is switched on. There are likely to be problems with the domestic water supply and tap water should not be drunk until advised that it is safe to do so.

Once the floodwaters have subsided it is important to oil hinges and locks to prevent corrosion, leave windows and doors open to dry the house out, and once approval from a loss adjuster has been given, remove the floor covering and wash everything down with disinfectant and water. Any vehicle claims should be made under your car insurance policy and not your home insurance.

Robin Bailey, insurance director at Nationwide, said the company would be doing everything it could to help those affected: “The flooding has highlighted the importance of having adequate home contents insurance cover. Nationwide intends to make the clean-up operation as seamless as possible to ensure people’s homes can get back to normal as soon as possible.” Whilst Direct Line have doubled their staffing arrangements and placed 100 members of its emergency response team on stand-by to assist stricken policy holders at a moment’s notice.

Anyone who thinks that they are at risk of flooding should check their policy and make sure that they are adequately covered if the worst does happen. If unsure your provider will always be on hand to give advice and the Environment Agency floodline is always available on 0845 988 1188 for other floor-related queries.
By Ariane Buteux

Source: ' Personal Finance & Savings '

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