Direct Line Home Insurance calls for better flood defences

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Friday 17th November 2006

Direct Line Home Insurance has revealed its customers would like better flood defences in anticipation of heavy winter rains.

Some 42 per cent of residents in flood-risk areas believe the government should invest in defences, according to the insurer, with 27 per cent being victims of flooding in the past ten years.

Andrew Lowe, head of Direct Line home insurance, said: "Flood damage is often unexpected and its really important that homeowners make sure that they are properly insured."

"Victims without proper cover have had to raid their savings or cancel holidays in order to make up the shortfall," he added.

Up to 14 per cent of those surveyed said they would be happy to pay a flood levy or increased council tax in exchange for the reassurance.

However, Direct Line encourages its customers to check their coverage as 52 per cent of respondents said they had not been fully covered for the damage suffered during flooding.

The concerns follow meteorologist warnings that the UK is facing a mild but wet winter, with some areas being told to prepare for the worst.

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