Insurers expect barrage of claims

04/01/12

By Kev Kiernan

A day of powerful wind and rain across the UK, which damaged a large number of vehicles and buildings, has braced insurers for an avalanche of policy claims.

Insurance firms say they expect a huge number of submissions from residents, businesses and motorists following a day of weather-induced disruption.

The Association of British Insurers, a financial services trade group, insisted its members will move quickly to settle claims. It said people should contact their policy seller as soon as possible in order to get the process moving.

It urged people to keep receipts detailing any additional costs incurred in light of weather damage to homes, businesses and vehicles, such as having to make emergency but temporary repairs.

The association's general insurance chief, Nick Starling, said: "Insurers expect bad weather to strike and are geared up to dealing with claims for storm damage.

"Their number-one priority is to ensure that anyone who suffers damage gets their claim dealt with as quickly as possible."