Confused.com gives advice to homeowners as severe weather hits Britain

As Britain braces itself for the severe weather predicted by forecasters, Confused.com offers advice to people whose homes may be at risk from flooding. Gareth Kloet, head of home insurance at Confused.com says: “Homeowners need to be aware that extreme weather can cause massive damage to homes. “With rain forecast and the run-off from melting snow to contend with, drainage systems and sodden ground could struggle to cope with the quick, unexpected deluge and flooding is a very real risk. Making sure adequate home insurance cover is in place is the best way to minimise the impact of any costs incurred getting the house back to its original state. “It also funds any alternative accommodation needed for those unfortunate enough to be moved from home whilst repair work takes place.” As well as ensuring adequate cover, Confused.com offers these tips: BEFORE THE FLOODS When adverse weather conditions are forecast, homeowners do have time to implement some steps which can limit the damage caused: Move as much furniture as possible upstairs. If you do not have an upstairs, raise the furniture off the ground Unplug electrical equipment and store as high as possible Place sandbags outside your property, taking care to block entry points like doorways and vents, and consider putting them down any ground floor toilets, this will reduce the amount of water able to get into the house Locate your home insurance policy details. If you need to call and make a claim, make sure you have policy details and telephone numbers readily available Keep sentimental items such as jewellery and photos in a safe place. These cannot be replaced, so make sure they are high and dry If flooding is inevitable, turn off mains supplies of water, gas and electricity AFTER THE FLOODS HAVE HIT For those who are unfortunate enough to experience flooding of the home, below is advice on what needs to be done: • Take photos of any damage • Call your insurance provider as soon as possible after the water has entered your home. They will then assign drying equipment to the home which will speed up the process • Open windows and doors where appropriate to help ventilate the home, but be sure to remain security conscious • Take photographs of damaged items. This could assist the insurance provider in settling claims quickly • Keep ruined furniture until after the claim has been settled. Some providers may want to inspect the damage -ENDS- Gareth Kloet is available for interviews or to give advice. For further information please contact: Press office Confused.com 02920 434 398 About Confused.com: Confused.com is one of the UK's biggest and most popular price comparison services. Launched in 2002, it generates over one million quotes per month. It has expanded its range of comparison products over the last couple of years to include home insurance, travel insurance, pet insurance, van insurance, motorbike insurance, breakdown cover and energy, as well as financial services products including credit cards, loans, mortgages and life insurance. Confused.com is not a supplier, insurance company or broker. It provides a free, objective and unbiased comparison service. By using cutting-edge technology, it has developed a series of intelligent web-based solutions that evaluate a number of risk factors to help customers with their decision-making, subsequently finding them great deals on a wide-range of insurance products, financial services, utilities and more. Confused.com's service is based on the most up-to-date information provided by UK suppliers and industry regulators. Confused.com is owned by the Admiral Group plc. Admiral listed on the London Stock Exchange in September 2004. Confused.com is regulated by the FSA.