03-03-2017

Last week Storm Doris hit the UK and much of the country was issued with amber weather warnings from the Met Office for wind, snow and rain. This soon transformed into what is known as a 'weather bomb' and caused widespread disruption with winds reaching powerful speeds (the highest recorded was 94mph in Cape; Curig, North Wales).

Transport was delayed, flights were cancelled, trees were blown down and some people were seriously injured. If you were one of the many people who suffered damage to your commercial premises, buy-to-let property or any company-owned vehicles, then you may have a claim.

Are You Covered for Storm Damage?

Most business insurance policies will include buildings cover for a premises, however you can consult your policy if you're unsure. Whether the storm is deemed responsible will likely be analysed using the Beaufort Scale (a scale to represent the force and wind speed) and each insurer will likely have a definition of at what level this can be seen as severe enough to do damage.

The Association of British Insurance has released advice to anyone who has suffered damage as a result of Storm Doris. This is as follows:

• Do not put yourself at risk, for example climbing up to check any possible damage to roofs.
• Contact your property insurer as soon as possible. Most will have 24-hour emergency helplines, to offer advice on what to do and to sort out repairs as quickly as possible.
• If necessary, arrange temporary emergency repairs to stop any damage getting worse. Tell your insurer and keep any receipts, as this will form part of your claim.
• Do not be in a rush to throw away damaged items, unless they are a danger to health, as these may be able to be repaired or restored. Your insurer will advise.

Laura Hughes, ABI Policy Adviser, General Insurance, said:

"This is exactly the type of event that insurance is designed to cover. Insurers expect bad weather to strike during the winter and will be geared up to helping customers who have suffered storm damage recover as quickly as possible. Home, business and comprehensive motor policies will cover storm damage. Business policies may also cover the cost of hiring alternative temporary trading premises."

How to Make a Claim

If you have become a victim to Doris, the first thing you should do is take photographs of the damage - these can be used as evidence if your insurance provider requests it. Then secure your property and give your insurer a call.

Depending on your policy, your insurer will be able to advise whether a 24-hour emergency call out service is available or whether you'll have to arrange your own repairs.

Need to Update Your Insurance?

If the damage seen by Storm Doris has reminded you that your business insurance policy is coming to an end and how essential it is to stay covered, we can help. Select and compare insurance quotes online with us to ensure your business has affordable cover that meets your commercial needs.