Even with a hosepipe ban consider specialist flood risk insurance

WITH the eastern side of England facing an imminent hosepipe ban the last thing you would be expecting me to write about is the need to prepare for floods and having a specialist flood risk insurance in place.

It is often forgotten that the summer months have seen some of the most destructive floods in recent years, residents of Sheffield and Tewkesbury had no inkling as to what was about to hit them in the summer of 2007, being prepared is key to avoid further misery.

Step 1 ? Check your postcode
If you are really not sure whether your property is at risk, visit the Environment Agency?s website and insert your postcode on the flood map, this map will help you understand if you are at risk from flooding from the rivers and sea.

Step 2 ? Specialist Insurance
If your postcode appears on the flood map then there is every chance your existing insurance company will be already aware, but with the demise of the statement of principles imminent it is likely that your existing cover will either become increasingly expensive, or your insurance company may withdraw cover altogether. Sooner or later you will need specialist flood risk insurance from a Broker or Insurer with a track record in arranging flood insurance cover.

Step 3 ? Being Prepared
The Environment Agency ask you to complete a flood plan, this list all of your important contacts from utility companies, your insurance company and local council. Identify the service cut off locations in the house and what you should be taking with you. The plan also provides prompts on the key actions if disaster strikes.

Compile a ?flood kit? to help minimise damage and help keep you and your family safe. The kit should include a mop, broom, bucket, cleaning equipment, mobile phone, torch, waterproof clothing, first aid items, and long-life food supplies. Keep your flood kit upstairs if possible. Store your home insurance documents and other important documents somewhere safe and watertight.

Step 5 ? Monitor Flood Warnings
Keep a close eye on local and national weather forecasts and sign up with Floodline Warnings Direct by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188

Step 6 ? What to do after a flood
After the flood you will need to clean up. Floodwater can contain sewage so wear protective clothing and gloves. Use a pump or generator to get water out of the property only when water levels have started to go down outside. If you?re drying the property manually leave doors and windows open but close them if you?re using a dehumidifier. Only turn gas and electricity back on when it?s been checked by a qualified person.

Contact your insurance company to report a claim as soon as you can, and remember, to mark on the wall in each room the level the floodwater reached and photograph damaged property and possessions.

The Property Insurer works with one of the best providers in the UK and it will do its best to provide comprehensive insurance cover at a realistic price. Visit The Property Insurer today and go to the Flood Risk Insurance button.

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Doug Phelan
The Property Insurer

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