FLOODING AND CARNAGE - WHAT CAN I DO!

Sadly, the weather in the UK is rather changeable/inclement and with global warming, we are seeing more and more episodes of serious floods.

The impact is catastrophic and affects everyone - homeowners, businesses, drivers, consumers (for events which get cancelled due to flooding) and more.

Insurance is a hot topic and you should check your policy - homeowners, does it cover you for floods! A lot of policies do not. If not then consider revising your insurance policy or shop around and change insurers to ensure you are covered. Tenants - ask your landlord to confirm their insurance cover includes cover for floods.

If you live in area which suffers from frequent floods, consider buying sandbags for extra protection. Ensure your existing insurance cover is enough and if you pay by direct debit, make sure all payments are made (if you miss one, your may be uninsured).

Do you have business interruption cover? If you do, check it includes cover for floods - if not then consider revising the policy or shop around and change insurers.

Drivers - do you HAVE to make that journey in bad weather, especially where areas have flooded?. The Environment Agency says that only 30 centimetres or 12 inches of flowing water is enough to move your car - to faster flowing and deeper water!. Do you have to take the risk?. If so then check your car over, take any supplies in case you get stuck, take a phone and charger, let other people such as friends and family know your movements. Before your trip make a quick call to your insurer - will they cover you?

Consumers - if you see a forecast for torrential rain, consider booking an event on credit card (if you have to go) as you have more protection with a credit card.

If you have already claimed from your insurer, are they acting fairly?. If not, make a formal complaint to them (they have to deal with all complaints), and if you still don’t get anywhere, ensure you contact the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) who will step in and hopefully resolve the dispute with the insurer - https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/ and NOTE the FOS is there to help both consumers and small/medium size businesses in their disputes.