Heavy rain, thunderstorms and possible flooding forecast for the coming days have prompted a warning from home insurance experts, with the average flood damage claim reaching £69,647.
Met Office issues yellow thunderstorm warnings
After weeks of heatwaves, droughts and barely any rain, the Met Office has issued a clutch of yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms, including the risk of flooding, lightning strikes and power cuts. Heavy rain falling on dry ground can lead to flash flooding, which in turn can cause serious flood damage to houses.
According to experts at Confused.com, the average home insurance claim for flood damage is £69,647.
Expert advice on preparing for flash flooding
Matthew Harwood, home insurance expert at Confused.com, said: "After such a long, dry summer, a bit of rain might feel like good news. But when heavy rain lands on ground hardened by months of drought, it might run straight off instead of soaking in, which can quickly lead to flash flooding. So even after weeks of sunshine, it's worth being prepared in case your home or garden is affected.
"Our data shows flooding is the most expensive type of home insurance claim, averaging £69,647. And as extreme weather becomes more common, so does the threat to homes."
Steps to take if your home is flooded
Harwood urged households hit by flash flooding to follow three steps when making a claim. He said: "If you are affected, taking note of these steps before making a claim should help make for a smooth process: Contact your insurer as soon as possible, as they'll explain what your policy covers and what to do next. Inspect your home carefully, take clear photos of the damage, and note the date and time. Keep any damaged items to show how much was lost when your insurer reviews the claim.
"Even if you think you're covered, protection varies between providers and policies, and not all include flooding as standard. Our flood risk map page offers practical tips on how to prepare and what should you, such as signing up for the Government's free flood alerts, and also lets you check whether your home is in a high-risk area for flooding from rivers, reservoirs or surface water, so you can act before heavy rain hits."
Met Office details on expected weather
The Met Office said in its warning: "Slow moving heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected this afternoon, bringing some flooding and travel disruption in a few places. Heavy showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop over the area this afternoon. These showers will be slow moving bringing accumulations of 15-20mm in an hour in some places, with 30mm possible in a few hours. Lightning and hail will be additional hazards. The showers will ease during the evening."
