Storms cause havoc in parts of UK

9th December, 2011

As almost 70,000 homes are left without power and after Britain experienced a battering by gales of up to 165mph, the Met Office has issued its strongest warning – a red alert – for further gale force wind conditions in Scotland.

This level of warning indicates there could be ‘widespread structural damage’ with the risk of roofs being blown off and power lines brought down. The Association of British Insurers has promised a speedy response from its members to policyholders who have suffered damage caused by the high winds.

The trade body confirms that storm damage, such as that caused by high winds, will be covered by home and business property insurance policies and that comprehensive motor insurance will cover damage caused to vehicles.

Anyone who has suffered damage should:

Contact their insurer’s helpline as soon as possible for advice and to get the claim moving. They should also arrange for any temporary repairs to stop the damage getting worse.

Nick Starling, the ABI’s director of general insurance, says: “Insurers expect bad weather to strike and are geared up to dealing with claims for storm damage.” He went on to say “Their number one priority is to ensure that anyone who suffers damage gets their claim dealt with as quickly as possible.”

 

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