ABI advice to flash-flood victims

by Gill Montia

Story link: ABI advice to flash-flood victims

Last week’s flash flooding in the West County has prompted the Association of British Insurers to issue advice to the property owners affected.

Those who have household and/or business insurance policies should be covered for flood damage and need to contact their insurer as soon as possible.

Twenty-four hour emergency helplines are provided by most insurers, the first port of call to arrange for repairs to be carried out.

Where necessary, property owners can arrange for temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Receipts should be kept and submitted with the final claim.

If possible take photographs of the damage and keep material or photographic evidence of items that have to be removed, such as sodden carpets.

Most policies cover the cost of alternative accommodation should a property need to be vacated as a result of flooding. However cost limits apply.

Accept that drying out can take months and do not rush at restoring decoration.

Water and electricity should not be used at the property until the supplier has confirmed it is safe to do so.

Finally, vehicles damaged by flood are insured only if the cover is comprehensive.