Prepare for flooding
As more snow is once again forecast, we are all being urged to prepare for flooding.
The temperatures are warming up, meaning that the snow is melting and damage to homes is more than likely.
As the snow and ice thaws, there will be flooding and burst pipes, adding to the mounting cost of this winter's erratic weather.
As we have featured in our case studies and in our latest news section, water and flood damage to homes and business is horrendous and unless you have flood defences, the cost can be devastating.
Generally speaking, repairing water damage is expensive to put right, with a burst pipe causing an average of £60,000 worth of damage. A burst pipe often results in water bringing down ceilings and extensive damage throughout a property.
Around 300 gallons of water passes through a water pipe in just 10 minutes, so it is clear how a burst pipe can completely destroy a home and everything in it. The thaw could also mean that undetected burst pipes causing havoc, as an influx of water is forced through.
Those in flood plains are especially at risk as the thaw is only going to be exacerbated by more rain. This is likely to overwhelm rivers, bursting their banks and flooding nearby towns and villages.
We have already reported the number of homes that are at risk from flooding stands at around 2 million (roughly 1 in 6), with 200,000 homes on the 'high risk' list. With this in mind, it is vital that home owners take precautions to protect their homes with flood defences as well as adequate insurance.
It is likely that those who live within the high flood risk area will need to hunt around for insurance, as many companies can no longer afford to cover such eventualities - and you can undoubtedly expect a massive hike in your premium. It is also worth considering that many homes have been reclassified as being within flood plain areas, so check whether this now means you www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/
The recession is also stopping people from insuring their homes, but this could result in repair costs that far exceed the cost of yearly insurance payments. If you do have a policy, it is worth, with the recent unpredictable weather, ensuring that you are covered by your insurance.
If you want to know how you can protect your home from flooding then read our helpful tips and advice.
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