Northamptonshire has already contended with flooding from significant storms in 2021. With the MetOffice issuing amber and yellow warnings as a result of storms Aiden, Alex, Bella and Christoph, we saw two months of rain fall in just three days, with significant flooding and levels of surface water as a result.
Some areas will continue to see snowmelt causing river levels to rise to high levels, and milder weather with south-westerly winds will bring heavy rain.
Towergate Insurance Brokers in Northampton has partnered with Flood Flash to offer alternative insurance solutions for flood, where no cover is available on a traditional policy. In addition, the following solutions and risk management methods can be considered:
- Elevate critical stock and equipment by storing it on purpose-built metal shelving that has been secured to the ground, or relocate the stock to an upper level
- Ensure fuel storage tanks are securely fastened or anchored to reduce potential pollution or damage in case of flooding
- Consider raising power sockets, phone connections, servers and cabinets to a higher point such as one metre above expected water levels
We also offer the following immediate advice should your business be affected by flood:
Safety
If the water has compromised the electrical safety of your premises, you must employ a qualified electrician to carry out all the necessary safety checks before anyone enters. If the water has compromised the structure of your premises you need to bring in a qualified surveyor to check.
Communications
A business continuity plan will allow you to communicate with staff, letting them know the details they need to know and what they will have to do in the short term. Send customers a holding statement until you have firm plans for re-starting your business.
Notifying your landlord
If you do not own your premises you need to notify your landlord immediately to help coordinate their insurance claims process.
Notifying your insurance company
You must inform your insurance company immediately. Most of our insurers will have a special emergency number which will be open 24/7 every day throughout the year. You can also contact your usual Towergate Advisor who will offer advice and support during a claims process or visit www.towergate.com/claims
Using a loss assessor
A loss assessor works on your behalf, handling the entire claim process including buildings, contents and business interruption. Policies such as Towergate Assist can alleviate the costs of these services.
If you have concerns about your exposure to flood, or would like to discuss the risk management, risk mitigation or alternative methods of insurance, you can discuss this with the team at Towergate Insurance Brokers, Northampton.
Call 01604 887300 or email northampton@towergate.co.uk
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Towergate Insurance Brokers is a trading name of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Registered in England No.4043759. Registered Address: 2 Minster Court, Mincing Lane, London EC3R 7PD. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
