esure offers advice to homeowners following storms and floods

With seven severe flood warnings currently in place in the South West of England, yet again the fear of flooding and its devastating impact are making the headlines. esure Home Insurance urges homeowners in coastal areas, properties close to rivers and estuaries, and areas prone to drainage overflow to take precautionary measures and contact their insurer immediately if they suffer any damage.

According to previously unreleased research from esure1, almost nine out of 10 adults (87 per cent) wouldn't consider buying a house that had been previously flooded. The survey also revealed that Brits believe that spending on flood defences should be a top priority for the Government over the next 10 years - ahead of spending on national defence, town planning, and recycling initiatives or other green issues.

Mike Pickard, Head of Risk and Underwriting at esure Home Insurance, said: "Extreme weather conditions are almost becoming commonplace in the UK, what with the recent earthquake and last year's devastating summer floods. At times like these, homeowners can rely on their buildings and contents insurance to cover such 'acts of god' and be rest assured that they won't be faced with a huge repair or hotel bill.

"The fear of flooding has definitely been growing and has changed the nation's perceptions on the popularity of, and desire for, water-side properties plus the need for investment in flood defences. There is no quick fix for flood damaged properties and the destructive power of water can turn lives upside down and damage personal belongings beyond repair. Taking precautions and being prepared for the unexpected, whenever it should strike, is crucial."

esure Home Insurance has these tips for homeowners who are fearful of having to make a flood-related claim:

Make sure you collect useful documents including insurance and bank details and essential telephone numbers together and keep them in a waterproof bag upstairs.

Prioritise moving valuable or sentimental belongings from lower floors to higher levels if possible.

Be prepared to turn off essential supplies - gas, electricity and water - at the mains. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do so there is no element of panic or confusion.

Contact your insurer as soon as possible after your property has been damaged. Claims staff will be able to advise on what to do next.

If advised to leave your property by the authorities, follow any instructions they give. Leave your property as secure as possible.