It's snow fun when you haven't got any home insurance
The estimated cost of damage as a result of the flash floods and blizzards that have swept across the UK during November is £1.1 million and rising according to Santander Insurance. According to research from the bank the average cost of damage from weather related damage is costing the UK, on average, £36,670 a day in claims.
With extreme weather conditions becoming a regular feature of the UK weather pattern Santander Insurance advises people to be ever more prepared for the worst.
Santander Insurance storm, snow and flood advice:
Keep all insurance and important documents in a water tight container
Keep a photographic record of all valuables as evidence for insurance claims
Make sure you have a copy of your insurance hotline telephone number in the event of an emergency
Keep a torch in an easy accessible place should your power be cut
Make sure you know where and how to turn off your water and electricity supply in the case of an emergency
Have your essential phone numbers listed separately to your mobile phone should you not be able to access it
Inform immediate friends and family that you are safe but may need assistance in the coming days
Santander's dedicated claims helpline is 0845 602 6040
Colin Greenhill, Director of Santander Insurance said: "Despite the country looking like a winter wonderland, the damage caused by extreme weather conditions is both upsetting and inconvenient.
"The British weather is as unpredictable as it is uncontrollable but we can all ensure that should the worst happen we are correctly insured. We expect more claims to come in over the next couple of weeks and as the snow melts we also expect to see a fair amount of flood damage claims. Santander Insurance aims to make the process of claiming as stress free as possible and has a dedicated claims helpline on 08456 000733."
Santander's Peace of Mind home insurance has been awarded a 5 star rating from independent financial researchers Defaqto for the sixth year in a row and is one of only two providers to have ever achieved this honour.
Key features of the ‘Peace of Mind' product include
Unlimited total sum insured for Buildings and Contents (up to 5 bedrooms) cover
Unlimited sum insured cover for the cost of temporary accommodation
No extra charge for paying monthly premiums by Direct Debit
24 hour emergency help line
Cover for the loss of downloaded information and music
Optional extended Accidental Damage cover, for damage caused in the home accidentally, such as food and drink spillages.