More than half of Britons affected by flooding have inadequate home insurance to cover the damage, new research has revealed.
Some 52 per cent of those affected found that their home insurance policies did not cover damage such as structural problems with their homes, damage to vehicles and loss of electrical items, according to a study by Direct Line.
However, the most common reasons for Britons to claim on their home insurance in the wake of a flood were ruined floors or carpets, damaged gardens and wrecked upholstery or paintwork.
On average, the damage caused to homes affected by flooding costs just under £6,000 to repair, the home insurance provider's research shows.
Andrew Lowe, head of Direct Line Home Insurance, comments: "Flood damage is often unexpected and it's really important that homeowners make sure that they are properly insured."
He added that those without adequate home insurance are often forced to dip into their savings or cancel holidays to cover the costs.
Mr Lowe recently pointed out that it is the duty of all members of the Association of British Insurers to offer home insurance cover on a property, no matter how bad the risk or history of flooding.




