Insurance Ireland has issued advice to policyholders who have suffered damage due to the recent storms and floods.   

Michael Horan, Non-Life Manager, Insurance Ireland said, “We advise people in areas at risk of flooding to take sensible precautions to prevent further damage to their property, without risking injury to themselves.  For example, furniture and valuables may be moved to an upper storey.”

“Home and business owners who have suffered damage should contact their insurers as quickly as possible.  Insurers are working hard to ensure that policyholders’ claims are handled quickly and many insurers have emergency helplines for their customers.” 

Insurance Ireland reminds policyholders that: 

• Household buildings and contents insurance will usually cover damage caused by storms and flooding;

• Damage to cars is covered by comprehensive motor insurance policies;

• Insurers will usually pay for the cost of temporary repairs, so ensure that you keep receipts;

• Insurers will also pay for the cost of alternative accommodation, if the house becomes uninhabitable (up to stated limits);

• Householders should check the full extent of their policies and contact their insurer or broker as quickly as possible. 

Turning to the cost of the damage, Mr Horan said, “It is too early to estimate the cost of these storms and floods. An estimate will not be available for at least three to four weeks”.

–Ends- 

For further information please contact Jane O’Driscoll, PR and Communications Manager 01 644 7781 / 087 9795369 

Notes to Editor 

1. As the voice of insurance actively promoting the highest standards, Insurance Ireland represents 95% of the domestic market and 70% of Ireland’s international life insurance market. This business generates €25bn in premium income (domestic and overseas), employs 15,000 people, with thousands more in ancillary services and contributes over €1.1 billion in tax to the Irish exchequer.       

2. Insurance Ireland, which is the representative body for insurance companies in Ireland, was previously known as the Irish Insurance Federation.  

Cost of Previous Weather Events