In the wake of recent storms, many homeowners are left grappling with the aftermath, including damage to their properties. While household insurance policies generally provide coverage for storm damage, they often exclude certain structures such as fences or sheds. This can leave homeowners facing unexpected repair costs. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) cautions that claiming for storm damage can be a lengthy and challenging process. Many are advised to contact their insurers directly to understand their coverage and initiate claims correctly.
Amidst the chaos following a storm, some homeowners have unfortunately fallen victim to unscrupulous workers who offer substandard repairs in exchange for cash. The ABI strongly advises individuals to avoid such transactions and instead rely on their insurance providers, who typically have vetted professionals available for repairs. Additionally, the ABI highlights that damage from storms may not always be immediately apparent. For instance, corrosion could slowly affect mechanical parts, leading to failure months later.
Motorists also face significant challenges during storms, particularly when navigating floodwaters. The AA reported rescuing 603 cars from floodwaters on Christmas Eve alone. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution when encountering floodwaters, driving at speeds of less than 5mph in first gear while maintaining high engine revolutions to prevent water ingress. Despite these precautions, repairs for severely flood-damaged vehicles can be costly, resulting in 70% of such vehicles being written off as uneconomical to repair.
The Gatwick Christmas Eve flooding incident serves as a reminder of how unpredictable storms can disrupt lives. Those affected by the flooding received £100 in compensation from the airport. Motorists are advised against driving through water deeper than a few inches to avoid potential damage. Flooding incidents have reduced compared to the peak figures of 2007, providing some relief despite ongoing weather challenges.
Most insurance companies provide 24-hour emergency helplines, offering immediate assistance and guidance to policyholders affected by storm damage. Homeowners are encouraged to contact their insurance company before undertaking any repair work to ensure all actions align with policy conditions. This step is crucial in ensuring that any subsequent claims are processed smoothly and without unnecessary complications.
Another crucial point for homeowners is understanding the limitations of third-party insurance. Such policies do not cover damage to the policyholder’s property, leaving them solely responsible for any repairs or replacements necessary after a storm. This underscores the importance of reviewing insurance policies regularly to ensure adequate coverage.