Home insurance customers told to prepare for storms

Home insurance customers should take steps to protect their properties as storms continue to batter the country, one expert has warned.

Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, urged people to take steps now to reduce the chance of a hefty repair bill later on.

We have seen some of the worst snowy and icy conditions for decades recently, and now winter storms, heavy rain and more snow pose a considerable threat to many homes in England and Wales, particularly in southern regions, he said.

Storm damage can lead to home insurance claims of around £1,000 while flooding can see the cost spiral to £20,000, Mr Foulds stated.

People should keep an eye on local weather forecasts and take action when it is needed, the home insurance expert added.

Yesterday, Steve Sweeney, head of home insurance at Moneysupermarket.com, explained that if people are victims of a flood, their policy provider will expect them to have taken steps to reduce the cost of their claim .

These include moving expensive electrical items up stairs, he said.