The Association of British Insurers (ABI) assured homeowners and businesses affected by Storm Bert that insurers are prepared to provide assistance.
Most standard home insurance, commercial business policies, and comprehensive motor insurance cover damage caused by storms and flooding, the association said.
Louise Clark, general insurance policy adviser at the ABI, stated that insurers are ready to address the challenges posed by severe weather.
“Their priority will be to help affected customers recover as quickly as is practical. If your property or vehicle has been damaged, contact your insurer as soon as you can for help and advice,” Clark said.
For flood-damaged properties, the ABI has outlined a recovery process beginning with contacting insurers immediately. Insurers will provide information on emergency accommodation, if required, and advise on submitting claims and initiating cleanup and repairs.
A loss adjuster will be assigned to assess damage, explain repair options, and discuss temporary accommodation arrangements. Cleaning and stripping out work will be organised by the adjuster and is expected to begin within weeks of the assessment.
Once the property is cleaned and stripped out, a drying company will disinfect and dry the building. This process may take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the damage. Repairs and reconstruction will commence after a drying certificate is issued, with insurers facilitating the work.
ABI noted that some policyholders may also be eligible for Build Back Better measures, which allow flood resilience improvements to be incorporated into repairs. The timeline for returning home will depend on the extent of the damage, ranging from a few weeks to over a year.
For damage caused by storm winds, the ABI advises policyholders to contact their insurers promptly. Insurers may offer 24-hour emergency helplines to provide immediate guidance and arrange repairs. Temporary emergency repairs can be carried out to prevent further damage, but policyholders should consult their insurer first and retain receipts for any work undertaken.
The association also highlighted that damaged items should not be discarded unless they pose a health risk, as insurers may be able to repair or restore them. If the property is uninhabitable, insurers will arrange and cover the cost of alternative accommodation in accordance with the policy terms.
Commercial insurance policies typically cover damage to premises and stock. Business interruption cover, whether included in the policy or purchased separately, will reimburse additional trading costs, such as hiring temporary premises to maintain operations.
The ABI emphasised its commitment to helping policyholders recover from the impacts of Storm Bert. Policyholders are encouraged to contact their insurers promptly to begin the claims process and receive assistance tailored to their circumstances.
Insurers are also expected to work closely with affected individuals and businesses to ensure they have access to the resources needed for recovery.
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