Don’t be left high & dry warns American Express

American Express Insurance Services is reminding homeowners, particularly the five million people who live in flood risk areas, to protect their properties by checking their insurance cover and taking some simple precautions to minimize flood damage.

FLOOD FACTS

Two million properties and five million people live in flood risk areas.

50% (2.5million) of those living in a flood prone area are not aware of the risk.

Joanne Field, Marking Manager, American Express Insurance Services comments: “Whilst buildings insurance is compulsory for those with a mortgage, contents cover is not. It is of concern that an estimated five million homeowners do not have contents insurance2. A flood can wipe out the contents of a home in minutes with losses being thousands of pounds more than the cost of any insurance protection.”

Whilst home insurance will provide financial protection against the damage a flood can cause, American Express recommends taking some precautionary steps:-

Check if you live in a flood area, a simple postcode check can be made by visiting the environment agency’s web site – environment-agency.gov.uk

Keep important telephone numbers in a high, safe place – include your insurance company’s helpline number, and the Foodline number.

Consider storing duplicate copies of important documents elsewhere or using an online storage facility such as American Express’ Card Defence product.

Put together a flood kit with first aid items, torch, blankets and clothing.

Educate family members as to where gas, electricity and water can be turned off in the event of a flood.

Have an action plan as to where vehicles and pets could be safely moved to if a major flood was predicted.

Depending on flood risk consider replacing floorboards with concrete flooring.

Check each year that your contents cover is high enough. It is easy to underestimate the value of a lifetime’s possessions. American Express home insurance offers a flexible contents cover from £5000 upwards and has a £2,500 single item limit.

For further details of American Express Insurance Services and its policies, visit americanexpress.co.uk/home.