As we have seen dominating the news and media for the past couple of months, the devastating scenes of the flood crisis has affected people up and down the country including the South East and London.
There are currently 146 flood warnings in place throughout the UK – this is usually around 12.
If you have unfortunately been affected by a flood, The Association of British Insurers have outlined some detailed information of what to expect from your insurer.
There are some steps you can take to minimise the potential impact of flooding. These include assembling a flood kit containing your mobile phone, contact telephone numbers, torch, insurance policy details, etc.
If you have to leave your home and if there is time:
– consider taking any valuables with you
– lock your doors and windows if possible
– inform family and neighbours of your plans and how to contact you
– ensure your pets are cared for
Do not do anything that may endanger your safety and follow any advice to leave your home as soon as possible. Call 999 if you feel in danger from rising floodwater at any point. Stay informed of latest developments by listening to local radio, TV or calling the Environment Agency’s floodline.
For many years flooding has been a major issue for some homeowners and tenants looking for buildings and contents insurance. If you live in a flood-prone area you may find it difficult to access affordable home insurance.
If you are experiencing problems buying insurance consider commissioning a property level flood risk survey, but check first if your insurer is able to take surveys into account when assessing whether or not to insure your property. Also consider installing flood defence measures, such as flood doors, airbrick covers which are available for between £10-£20 and raised electrical sockets, in parallel with a property-level flood risk survey.
Insurers are currently obliged to offer insurance to their existing customers who have previously been flooded or are at risk of flooding under an agreement – called the Statement of Principles – currently in place between the Association of British Insurers and the Government.
The Government has agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on how to develop a not-for-profit scheme – Flood Re – that would ensure flood insurance remains widely affordable and available. Flood Re will ensure 300,000 homes in the most affected parts of the country are guaranteed affordable flood cover.
For a no obligation insurance review and to find out more about how we may be able to help you please call Horner Blakey Insurance Brokers on 020 7929 0108
