NFU Mutual estimates storm claim bill will top £30m

Rural insurer NFU Mutual estimates that this week’s storms may lead to over 10,000 claims and a claims bill of over £30m.

NFU Mutual agents and staff have been working since the storm struck to help policyholders whose homes, vehicles, or businesses have been damaged by the gales and floods.

" Our prime concern is to help our policyholders quickly when they are in difficulties," said Richard Pilkington, Claims Manager.

" At times like this our local network of agents really comes into its own. Local staff have been able to give advice on the spot, make arrangements for damage inspections, and in some cases settle claims immediately. We have pulled out all the stops to help badly-affected policyholders get emergency repairs under way, and are making immediate payments where necessary. "

He explained that the majority of claims reported so far were for roof damage to homes, commercial buildings and vehicles, with fallen trees which had hit vehicles and buildings making up a large proportion of the claims.

“The most serious damage is being reported in the South West of England, which bore the brunt of the storm. However, for the first time in many years, we have seen storm damage right across England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland appear to have escaped the worst of the storm this time. There has been severe damage to a significant number of buildings – particularly those in exposed positions.

Many policyholders have also lost power. This means we may also get claims for damaged freezer contents and milk in farm storage tanks which has been spoiled due to electricity failure or because fallen trees or floods have prevented tankers getting through to farms.

NFU Mutual advises policyholders who have suffered damage to get emergency repairs carried out straight away, and to contact their local NFU Mutual office or its helpline for advice - and to get their insurance claims underway.