Cornwall floods are a reminder of insurance priority

By Joel Stanier – Financial specialist

The major floods in Cornwall have put hundreds of families out of their homes, at least until the water has subsided and the damage has been repaired.

Many families will understandably be worried about how long it will take - and how much it will cost - for them to get their homes back. Thankfully, those with the right insurance policy should be covered for the cost.

The Association of British Insurers has given advice to people affected by the floods. It recommends that they contact their insurer immediately to arrange an inspection of their home, so that repairs can be carried out as soon as possible.

Other practical advice includes checking whether gas, electricity and water supplies are safe, disinfecting floors and furnishings and leaving doors, windows and cupboards open to help the rooms dry out.

But those without a home insurance policy may be in more trouble, as they may have to shoulder the costs alone.

Nick Starling, Director of General Insurance and Health at the ABI, commented: "Unwelcome events like this highlight why insurance is so important. Insurers know how traumatic and disruptive flooding can be. Their first priority will be to ensure that every claim is dealt with as quickly as possible, and they will be doing everything possible to help their customers recover."

Tags: floods, flood, Cornwall, insurance, flood insurance

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