moneysupermarket.com: Storm conditions affecting Britain

Commenting on storm conditions affecting Britain, Richard Mason, director of insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said: "People in Wales and South West England have been waking up to 80mph winds and the risk of coastal flooding. With the threat of worse conditions on the way, I urge people to act now. Homeowners whose properties are at risk of flooding must have good-quality home insurance.

"With 40 per cent of property owners in the UK electing not to have home insurance and about 2.3 million homes built on flood plains, there could well be over 900,000 homes on flood plains without cover at the moment.

"During the flooding chaos last summer, moneysupermarket.com saw a 300 per cent increase in applications for home insurance, rising to a surge of 1700 per cent in one affected area.

"My advice to anyone living in a flood risk area is to have a policy with a well known insurer, such as Norwich Union or Halifax. People should also check what their buildings and contents policies cover and the limits and excesses on both.

"While home insurance is essential to guard your property, motor insurance should also be an important consideration for any flood risk to your car.

"The adverse weather conditions are also affecting travel plans. British Airways and P& O have cancelled services this morning leaving many travellers stranded. Ensuring your travel insurance is up-to-date and adequate is essential."