Leading UK Loss Assessor Warns of the Dangers of Winter Flooding

PRLog (Press Release) - Dec. 11, 2009 - With the added dangers that this time of year brings, it’s certainly not the time to be cutting back on your home insurance, at least not according to Phil Morgan, a partner in leading UK claims consultancy firm Morgan Clark.

“The winter months are some of the busiest for insurance companies and claims consultants” Mr. Morgan said. “Water damage is a prime reason for this, with thousands of homes affected by flood waters and burst pipes each year. As a result it is around this time that we recommend everybody reviews their insurance policy and ensures that they are fully covered.”

Explaining the issues faced by insurance claimants Mr. Morgan said “It’s not always easy making a claim at the best of times. If your property has suffered significant damage you want to be sure that you can replace all of your flooring and possessions as soon as possible. A claims consultant can certainly help smooth this process along, giving invaluable advice and dealing with your insurer; however, to do this effectively, homeowners and businesses need to have the right level of coverage.”

Flooding is often highly unpredictable. For those who live in flood plains or by a river that is susceptible to breakings its banks you come to expect the associated risks that your locality poses; however, even in these circumstances, you still can’t fully prepare for the effects of flooding. Water damage isn’t just as a result of heavy rainfall and swelling rivers though. “Many people overlook the issue of water pipes freezing or bursting in their home or office” Phil Morgan continues. “If there is a leak in your property, or even in one that is immediately adjacent, the damage can be almost as devastating as a full flood.”

Whilst rare, the risk of a burst pipe can’t be ignored. With temperatures dipping below zero regularly throughout winter, you need to guard against water carrying pipes, both internal and external, from freezing. Once frozen, they can then be ruptured, allowing water to pour through the gaps; this in turn can cause damage that may run into the hundreds if not thousands of pounds. With this in mind, nearly all property is susceptible to water damage and, following the above advice, none should be without comprehensive building and contents insurance coverage.

If you do find yourself stricken by flood water, whether from outside or from within your own property, you should consider a claims consultant. This is particularly true of larger claims, where you may have incurred structural damage or extensive loss of contents. They help to make sure that you get the compensation you deserve from the insurance company you deal with, whilst also managing the claim on your behalf.

# # #

About Morgan Clark
Morgan Clark are the UK’s leading independent Loss Assessors, providing insurance claim help for thousands of clients. They have many years experience in helping homeowners (http://www.morganclark.co.uk/domestic_overview.htm) and businesses (http://www.morganclark.co.uk/commercial_overview.htm) to get the insurance payouts that they are entitled to. Morgan Clark are fully accredited, and are regulated by the Financial Services Authority. As a specialist in home insurance claims, they have built a reputation for outstanding service and successful resolutions.

Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/10448141/1