First flood claims roll in

by Richard Kilner

Story link: First flood claims roll in

The heavy rainfall of recent days has seen NFU Mutual receive its first flood insurance claims.

The firm’s technical claims manager, Richard Pilkington, said that the insurer was assisting people who have suffered damaged homes or businesses.

Pilkington also said that the local network of agents was highly beneficial at such a time, as it permits the agents to swiftly visit policyholders and, if necessary, issue advice in person and sometimes settle claims at once.

Advice on what to do before a flood occurs includes:
turning off all supplies at the mains (including water as well as fuel); moving electrical goods, carpets and furniture to the first floor; using plywood, sandbags (available through local councils) or metal sheeting to protect doors, windows and airbricks; removing curtains

During a flood individuals should not enter rooms with standing water, and should keep details of bank accounts and insurance policies safe.

In the aftermath, the electrical system must be checked over to ensure its safety prior to switching it back on, water from taps should not be drunk unless an all-clear has been given and photographic evidence should be acquired of any damage to assist the ease of getting insurance payouts.

Finally, floodwater may be contaminated, and in that circumstance any affected goods ought to be thrown out.