NFU Mutual responds to floods

Rural insurer NFU Mutual, has started to receive flood claims from across the country following the torrential rain of the last few days.

Richard Pilkington, Technical Claims Manager said, “We’re helping a number of people whose homes and businesses have suffered damage. At times of flooding our local network of agents really comes into its own with local staff visiting policyholders who have suffered severe damage, giving advice on the spot, making arrangements for damage inspections, and in some cases settling claims immediately.”

The floods are the third weather event to hit NFU Mutual policyholders so far in 2008. Last week snow in Northern Ireland and Scotland led to a spate of accidents and storms damaged homes and businesses in South West Scotland.

Simple ways to protect your home from flooding

What to do before a flood

Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies at the mains. Find out where these are well in advance of any flood
Unplug all electrical items and store upstairs or as high up as possible
Cover doors, windows and airbricks with plywood, sandbags or metal sheeting.
Contact your local council for sandbags.
Move as much furniture and electrical items as you can upstairs.
Move furniture away from walls.
Roll up carpets and rugs and put them upstairs
Remove curtains or hang them up over the rail so they are kept above flood water
Leave internal doors open
Move sentimental items upstairs
Keep important personal documents in a sealed bag, and in a safe location

What to do during a flood

Make sure you have important personal documents such as insurance and bank details, as well as essential contacts in the local authority and your doctor.
Remember that personal safety is your prime concern. Don’t go into rooms with standing water if the power is still on, and don’t use electrical appliances affected by, or in contact with, moisture.
Move your car to higher ground to avoid damage.

What to do after a flood

Do not drink tap water until the all clear is given.
Your electrical system needs to be checked and safety confirmed before turning back on.
If you suspect the flood water to be contaminated (by sewage, for example) discard the affected items immediately.
Take photographs of damaged items as this will help with the claim.