subject: Hiscox business insurance advises firms prepare for extreme weather [print this page] Hiscox business insurance advises firms prepare for extreme weather
Hiscox is urging homeowners to take several practical steps in order to help safeguard their homes before winter kicks in, as an outlook of heavy wind, rain and potential flooding arrives.
Severe weather warnings have been released throughout the UK by the Met office this week, including strong gale winds reaching speeds of up to 90mph.
Hiscox business insurance has also warned firms to be vigilant and ensure they have taken out sufficient cover to protect their businesses.
Hiscox home insurance expert Austyn Tusler said that homes could suffer serious damage as result of heavy rain, but added that homeowners could prepare themselves to help minimise the impact of extreme weather.
The insurer advises home-owners to move as much furniture, electrical equipment and valuables to higher ground while preparing an emergency kit (including blankets, torches, waterproof clothing, food, water and a first aid kit) in case of evacuation or becoming trapped .
In addition to this, it can be useful to find out how to cut the electricity and gas (in the dark) and ensuring all important documents are safe.
The true devastations that can be caused by heavy rain and flooding have remained high in the public's mind since 2007 after severe weather ripped through parts of the UK causing destruction in its path.
However, due to economic conditions the Coalition Government recently announced cuts to the flood defence budget.
The Association of British Insurers expressed disappointment at the cut and warned that a long-term plan was needed in order to tackle the increased risk of flooding predicted in years to come.
Meanwhile, people have been warned that many home insurance policies do not provide full cover for cash. Property owners have been urged to check their insurance before keeping large amounts of money in their residence.
The results of a study conducted by Defaqto, an independent financial research company, suggested that a number of home insurance policies only cover cash of up to 500, and some that do not cover anything at all.
Mike Powell, general insurance analyst at Defaqto, said: "Burglaries increase during the winter months and it's important that you check that you've got adequate cover in case you become a victim."
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
