Claims Rise with Floodwaters

by Gill Montia

Story link: Claims Rise with Floodwaters

Abbey Home Insurance has gathered data showing that up to 8,600 claims were made on 25th June, as a result of the flooding and adverse weather conditions that affected much of the UK. Of these 3,200 claims were made for flood damage, 5,100 for damage caused by storms and 210 for damage caused by lightning.

Abbey estimates that in an average year, around 13,700 insurance claims are made in the UK as a result of damage to the home caused by flooding and although flood warnings were issued on the day in question, the destruction has been greater than expected. Some insurers have set up dedicated claims helplines with specialist advisers to assist with the influx of calls from anxious policyholders.

However, approximately 257,000 buildings and house contents insurance claims are declined each year as a result of under insurance. Both Abbey and the Association of British Insurers are urging homeowners to check that their cover is adequate. The current situation does at least give Abbey the opportunity to recommend the advantages of its Peace of Mind home insurance, which has recently been awarded a five star rating by Defaqto, the product research service, for the third year running.