Friday, July 10, 2009
Category:
Secured Loans
Further to the torrential weekend weather, which included storms and even earthquakes in some parts on South Wales, Confused.com has revealed an increase of 141 percent in the number of home insurance enquiries received. As a result, the price comparison site has offered advice on protecting properties from future bouts of poor weather.
Prior to a flood, homeowners should take as much furniture upstairs as possible, or raise it off the ground if an upper floor is not available; electrical equipment should be lifted off the floor, and unplugged; irreplaceable possessions of personal value, such as jewellery and photographs, should be kept in a safe place away from danger; water, gas and electricity should be turned off at the mains; sandbags should be positioned outside the property; and home insurance details should be to hand in case a claim is required.
If continuous rain has caused a flood, homeowners should contact their insurer as soon as water has entered their property in order to be assigned drying equipment; if feasible, windows and doors should be opened for ventilation; damaged belongings should be photographed for insurance purposes; and any ruined furniture should be retained until insurance claims have been settled, just in case an inspection is required.
Where earthquakes are concerned, homeowners are advised to familiarise themselves with what they are covered for. In addition, the processes behind claims should be understood. They involve structural engineers.
In relation to lightning, this weather element can cause fires, power loss, damage to electrical equipment, and structural issues. Therefore, the Met Office has advised unplugging electrical equipment that is not essential, such as TV’s, because lightning strikes can cause power surges; refraining from making and receiving calls amid storms, as lightning can travel through telephone lines; steering clear of metal taps and sinks if possible, as they can conduct electricity; avoiding water, trees, poles or metal objects whilst outside.
Darren Black, head of home insurance at Confused.com said: "I am concerned that the activity on our site suggests people think of home insurance when the weather threatens homes. Comprehensive cover should be in place all year round as the weather in this country is changeable to say the least, with residents experiencing flooding, lightning and earthquakes within 24 hours. Be insured against the elements as the weather continues to cause problems for some parts of the country."
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Homeowners whose properties have been damaged by severe weather conditions, and who want to make improvements over and above those covered by their home insurance, could consider taking out a secured loan to do so. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for home improvements could allow the borrower to adapt their property to suit their needs. Where extra living space is desired, an extension or conservatory could be introduced to the property with a
secured loan.
