“Flood alerts expected despite worst drought in a generation” reads a recent headline in the Telegraph. It’s a stark contrast to last year when the week of the Royal Wedding saw Britain reach record April temperatures of 27C. This year a new record was set, with April being the wettest on record.
Flooding is on the rise and costs the UK over £1bn annually in damages. The Government forecasts this figure to reach over £3bn by the 2020s and a staggering £12bn by the 2080s. One in ten homes is at risk of flooding in the UK and, what’s more, homeowners with properties at risk of flooding may find it impossible to obtain a mortgage or home insurance if a government pact with insurers is allowed to expire in June next year. Without insurance, flood damages could cost between £30-£40k to put right.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to completely flood-proof your home, but if you are concerned that your property is at risk there are some steps you can take to keep damage to a minimum.
5 flood proofing tips
- Floodgates can be purchased from DIY stores and can quickly be fitted to doors and windows to make them watertight. They are more effective than sandbags and are easy to store.
- Airbricks should be fitted with specially designed covers.
- Flood water can enter your home through sewerage pipes with water discharging through ground floor toilets and sinks. This can be avoided by fitting non-return valves to drains and water inlet and outlet pipes.
- Move any valuables from the ground floor, ideally to another premises. If this is not possible, move them to the attic or the uppermost floor.
- Ensure electricity and all other utilities are switched off.
In case of flood damage
If your home is damaged in a flood, it’s important to contact an insurance Loss Assessor like AKA MI Claims straightaway. We can arrange professional drying services by specialist contractors and any emergency repairs that are needed. We will also prepare an assessment of all damage and an inventory for your insurers, while dealing with their loss adjuster on your behalf. This is the best way of ensuring you receive a full and fair settlement.
About AKA Claims
AKA Claims is a firm of independent Loss Assessors, who work on a no win-no fee basis.
If you need to make a home insurance claim and you’re unhappy with the settlement offered to you by your insurance company, just call us now on 0800 285 1610 to arrange a no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced Loss Assessors. Alternatively, please just complete our Contact Us form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Youtube