We understand that if you've been affected by storms or flooding it is a worrying time. Our claims team are here to help and give you the advice you need if your home has been damaged. The tips below will also help you to minimise the effects of bad weather.
If your home has been flooded:
- If your property is uninhabitable, call our 24 hour emergency helpline on 0800 917 9205 or 0113 298 1907 as soon as possible, as they can arrange overnight accommodation for you
- Do not use your electrical or gas supply until it has been checked by a qualified tradesman
- Do not lift wet carpets unless absolutely necessary as they may shrink
- Wash taps and run them for a few minutes before use
- Open doors and windows to ventilate the house but make sure your house and valuables are secure
- There's always the chance of another flood. Restock any supplies that you have used as soon as possible
- Check with the claims team if you need to move to alternative accommodation as they will need to know how to contact you, also the cost is normally covered under your insurance policy.
- Do not rush to redecorate your home as it can take weeks for a flood-damaged property to fully dry out
- Take photographs of the damage to your building and contents; they may help with the settlement of your claim
- Don't throw away ruined possessions; they will need to be assessed
If your home has suffered storm damage:
- If your property is damaged and water is getting in, call our 24 hour emergency helpline on 0800 917 9205 or 0113 298 1907 as soon as possible. They can arrange for temporary repairs to stop the immediate emergency and make your property safe
- Alternatively, you can arrange for temporary repairs to stop the damage getting worse, and keep receipts for any such work as they will form part of your insurance claim
- Take photographs of the damage to your building and contents; they may help with the settlement of your claim
- Don't throw away ruined possessions; they will need to be assessed
- In case of a power cut, try not to open your fridge/freezer too much to keep out the heat. Food can remain frozen for up to 36-48 hours in closed freezer.