Contact your broker or insurer urgently to discuss any damage, they may agree to you carrying out certain emergency repairs before their representative has visited the property.
- Speak to your broker as soon as possible. If this is not possible and you have to carry out emergency repairs make sure you keep all receipts and, where possible, get an additional quote so you know you are paying a fair price.
- You may have to pay an excess to the principle repairer – this is the first part of any claim that you are not covered for.
- Do not attempt to inspect the damage by using a ladder while the rain and wind persist. Only look for damage once it is safe to do so.
- Make sure you have sufficient insurance cover for your sums insured on your buildings.
- Make sure your drains and gutters are unblocked enabling water to run off unhindered therefore preventing damage from overflow.
- Do not throw damaged items away as you will need to show them to the insurance representative so they can organise an equivalent replacement. Taking photos of items that need emergency repair can also help.
- Check if your home is at risk of flood by calling the Environment Agency floodline on 0845 988 1188.
- Remove any trees/branches that have been damaged and may be a threat to your property.
- If you are evacuated take valuables, insurance documents and pets.
- Businesses are urged to review their business interruption insurance. This will cover against loss of profit and increased overheads following damage caused by the bad weather. Your broker can advise you on the correct level of cover for your business.
