The warning comes after several areas have been placed on high flood alert, and with five million people living in flood prone areas, a shocking 50 per cent of those living in a flood prone area are not aware of the risk.
Joanne Field, Marketing Manager, American Express Insurance Services, said: Whilst buildings insurance is compulsory for those with a mortgage. Contents cover is not. It is of concern that an estimated five million homeowners do not have contents insurance.
A flood can wipe out the contents of a home in minutes with losses being thousands of pounds more than the cost of any insurance protection.
Make sure your contents are covered with HSBC Home Insurance
Whilst home insurance will provide financial protection against the damage a flood can cause, there are precautionary steps you can take.
Check if you live in a flood area, a simple postcode check can be made by visiting environment agency’s website or calling Floodline on 0845 9881188
Keep important telephone numbers in a high safe place include your insurance companys helpline number, and the Floodline number.
Consider storing duplicate copies of important documents elsewhere or using an online storage facility such as American Express Card Defence product.
Put together a flood kit with first aid items, torch, blankets and clothing.
Educate family members as to where gas, electricity and water can be turned off in the event of a flood.
Have an action plan as to where vehicles and pets should be safely moved to if a major flood was predicted.
Depending on flood risk consider replacing floor boards with concrete flooring.
Check each year that your contents cover is enough. It is easy to underestimate the value of a lifetimes possessions.
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